n. [ F. détente, fr. détendre to unbend, relax; pref. dé- (L. dis- or de) + tendre to stretch. See Distend. ] (Mech.) That which locks or unlocks a movement; a catch, pawl, or dog; especially, in clockwork, the catch which locks and unlocks the wheelwork in striking. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. the easing of tensions or strained relations (especially between nations), as by agreement, negotiation, or tacit understandings. [ WordNet 1.5 +PJC ]
n. [ L. detentio: cf. F. détention. See Detain. ]
The archduke Philip . . . found himself in a sort of honorable detention at Henry's court. Hallam. [ 1913 Webster ]