custody · noun U /ˈkʌs.təd.i/
custody (CHILD)
C2 the legal right to care for a child, especially when parents separate
Dictionary example:
When they divorced, it was Nicola who won custody of their two children.
Learner example:
My parents were fighting a long and tiring battle in court, over the custody of us children. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Swedish)
custody (PRISON)
C2 when someone is kept in prison, usually while they are waiting for a trial in court
Dictionary examples:
He is being held in custody in Los Angeles charged with assault.
He was taken into custody by Mexican authorities.
Learner example:
Not only was he badly injured during the following years, but he was [also] kept in custody by the Russians for about two years. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; German)
