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View synonyms for detective

detective

[ dih-tek-tiv ]

noun

  1. a member of the police force or a private investigator whose function is to obtain information and evidence, as of offenses against the law.


adjective

  1. of or relating to detection or detectives:

    a detective story.

  2. serving to detect; detecting:

    various detective devices.

detective

/ dɪˈtɛktɪv /

noun

    1. a police officer who investigates crimes
    2. ( as modifier )

      a detective story



adjective

  1. used in or serving for detection
  2. serving to detect

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Word History and Origins

Origin of detective1

First recorded in 1830–40; detect + -ive

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Example Sentences

On Thursday, Detective Superintendent McDonald described his account as “harrowing” and compelling.

Robert Morrill, a former gang detective and author of The Mexican Mafia/The Story, said there is little the authorities can do.

The Glock family feud gets messier with new court documents alleging that gun magnate Gaston had a detective follow his ex-wife.

Back at police headquarters, Chief of Police Michael Floore Sr. ran out of the detective bureau, barking into a walkie talkie.

She had a simple answer to my inquiry about the calls that were never returned—from her or anyone else in the detective bureau.

The door opened and a plain clothes detective entered the office.

So did my versatile friend, joyously confident in his powers, start on his glorious career as a private detective.

Detective Frey came in and saw Duggin lying dead, and he figured he'd go out and do big things.

The detective went downstairs and talked with Mrs. McCarthy a few minutes, and then took his leave.

The detective Agnes had retained, called on Baptiste's lawyers and held a lengthy consultation.

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