# detach

/ˈdɪˌtætʃ/ (US) · /dɪtˈætʃ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/detach
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to separate something from a larger group or object. In the military, it means to move a unit away from its main group to do a different job.

For teachers: to separate or disengage something from a larger whole or from a specific location. In a military context, it refers to the formal removal of a unit from its parent formation for a specific mission.

## Examples

- The army decided to detach a small group to guard the border.
- The general ordered the detachment of the medical unit to provide immediate aid to the injured soldiers.
- By detaching the reconnaissance squad from the main column, the commander ensured that the enemy would not be aware of the primary objective until the final phase of the operation began.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.