detachment

noun

de·​tach·​ment di-ˈtach-mənt 

dē-

1

: the action or process of detaching : separation

2

a

: the dispatch of a body of troops or part of a fleet from the main body for a special mission or service

b

: the part so dispatched

c

: a permanently organized separate unit usually smaller than a platoon and of special composition

3

a

: indifference to worldly concerns : aloofness

b

: freedom from bias or prejudice

Synonyms

• disinterest
• disinterestedness
• equity
• evenhandedness
• fair-mindedness
• fairness
• impartiality
• justice
• neutralism
• neutrality
• nonpartisanship
• objectiveness
• objectivity

Examples of detachment in a Sentence

I wish the article had approached the issue with a bit more detachment.

The form is perforated to make detachment of the bottom section easier.

A detachment of soldiers was called to assist the police.

Recent Examples on the Web

The album thrives on tension—between glitz and grime, between cool detachment and desperate longing. —Darryn King, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025

Aside from funding challenges and marketing gaps, Hayes is also learning to navigate the line between detachment and parasocial connection as an avid social media user himself. —Jasmine Browley, Essence, 3 Mar. 2025

The way proponents of the split have interpreted the Texas Education Code governing the detachment and creation of a new district is incorrect, according to education lawyers consulted by the Star-Telegram. —Cody Copeland, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Feb. 2025

These appliances help reduce the risk of detachment and leakage if the bag gets overly full. —Jamin Brahmbhatt, Verywell Health, 12 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1669, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing detachment

• retinal detachment

Rhymes for detachment

• attachment
• catchment
• reattachment

Kids Definition

detachment

noun

de·​tach·​ment di-ˈtach-mənt 

1

: the action or process of detaching : separation

2

a

: the sending out of a body of troops or part of a fleet from the main body

b

: a small military unit with a special task or function

3

a

: a lack of interest in worldly concerns

b

: freedom from the influence of emotions : impartiality