Detective

/dɪˈtɛktɪv/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person, especially a police officer, whose occupation is to investigate and solve crimes.

The detective arrived at the crime scene to gather evidence.

A person who investigates and solves mysteries or complex problems.

She aspired to be a detective, dreaming of solving the most challenging cases.

A novel or story in which the protagonist is a detective and solves a mystery.

He enjoys reading detective fiction, especially stories featuring classic characters like Sherlock Holmes.

From the Latin 'detectivus', meaning 'to uncover or discover'.

detective story

A narrative about a detective who solves a crime.

detective work

The tasks and responsibilities associated with investigating crimes.

detective novel

A literary genre focused on a detective's investigation.

investigate

To carry out research or inquiry.

crime

An act committed in violation of a law.

evidence

Information used to determine the truth in a legal case.

gumshoe

He's a real gumshoe, always getting the scoop.

flatfoot

The flatfoot on the beat always knows the neighborhood's trouble spots.