detective
|de-tec-tive|
/dɪˈtɛktɪv/
crime investigator
Etymology
'detective' originates from the Latin word 'detectus,' which is the past participle of 'detegere,' meaning 'to uncover.'
'detectus' transformed into the French word 'détective,' and eventually became the modern English word 'detective.'
Initially, it meant 'to uncover or reveal,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who investigates crimes.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person, especially a police officer, whose occupation is to investigate and solve crimes.
The detective solved the mystery of the missing jewels.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to the investigation of crimes or the work of detectives.
She enjoys reading detective novels.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35