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detentar

to hold (a post)

verb deh-ten-TAHR Rare
People & Society Politics

Origin: From Latin detentare, frequentative of detinere (to hold back, detain).

Also means

to exercise (power)

Usage Note

Detentar is a formal verb meaning to hold or wield a position, title, or power — particularly one held without full legitimacy, which makes it a common word in political and legal criticism: detentar el poder implies holding power improperly or without mandate. Prescriptive grammarians note it technically implies illegitimate possession, but in practice it is widely used neutrally for any exercise of office or record-holding. Avoid confusing it with detener ('to stop' or 'to arrest').

Examples

"Detenta el cargo desde hace diez años."

Natural Translation

He has held the position for ten years.

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