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.
  ◄ ►
  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]