Ar·rest v. t. [imp. & p. p. Arrested; p. pr. & vb. n. Arresting.]
1. To stop; to check or hinder the motion or action of; as, to arrest the current of a river; to arrest the senses.
Nor could her virtues the relentless hand
Of Death arrest. --Philips.
2. Law To take, seize, or apprehend by authority of law; as, to arrest one for debt, or for a crime.
Note: ☞ After this word Shakespeare uses of (“I arrest thee of high treason”) or on; the modern usage is for.
3. To seize on and fix; to hold; to catch; as, to arrest the eyes or attention.
4. To rest or fasten; to fix; to concentrate. [Obs.]
We may arrest our thoughts upon the divine mercies. --Jer. Taylor.
Syn: -- To obstruct; delay; detain; check; hinder; stop; apprehend; seize; lay hold of.
Ar·rest·ing a. Striking; attracting attention; impressive.
This most solemn and arresting occurrence. --J. H. Newman.
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arresting
adj : commanding attention; "an arresting drawing of people
turning into animals"; "a sensational concert--one
never to be forgotten"; "a stunning performance" [syn:
sensational, stunning]