detached
Detached (adjective) means not physically joined to anything else; standing separately. Example: “They live in a detached house on the edge of town.”
How to use detached
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither physically separate (like a house), or emotionally distant and impartial.
In UK property listings, "detached house" is a common and meaningful category (vs. semi-detached or terraced); this distinction is less used in US real estate.
Word forms
more detached comparative, most detached superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
They live in a _____ house on the edge of town.
Related words
Rhymes for detached
See all rhymes for detached →Frequently asked questions
What does “detached” mean?
The word “detached” means not physically joined to anything else; standing separately. In plain terms, either physically separate (like a house), or emotionally distant and impartial.
How do you pronounce “detached”?
“Detached” is pronounced dih-TACHT (/dɪˈtæt͡ʃt/ in IPA).
How do you use “detached” in a sentence?
Here is “detached” used in a sentence: “They live in a detached house on the edge of town.”
What part of speech is “detached”?
“Detached” is an adjective.
Is “detached” a common word?
“Detached” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “detached” have?
“Detached” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: not physically joined to anything else; standing separately.
What is the difference between detached and semi-detached?
A detached house stands completely on its own with no shared walls, while a semi-detached house shares one wall with a neighbouring property. The distinction is common in British property terminology.
What is the difference between detached and aloof?
Detached describes someone who is not emotionally involved, often in a calm or impartial way, while aloof suggests a colder, more deliberate distance from others, sometimes bordering on unfriendly. Detached can be neutral or even professional, whereas aloof usually carries a negative tone.
Can detached describe both objects and people?
Yes, detached can describe something physically separate, such as a detached garage, or someone emotionally distant or impartial, such as a detached observer. The meaning shifts depending on whether it applies to a physical object or a person's demeanour.