detailed
Americanadjective
-
having many details.
a detailed problem.
- Synonyms:
- complicated, complex, involved
-
thorough in the treatment of details; minute.
a detailed report.
- Synonyms:
- comprehensive, thorough, exhaustive
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of detailed
Explanation
Use the adjective detailed when you're talking about something that's full of specific points or facts. A detailed weather report includes temperature, cloud cover, and the possibility of rain. Something that's detailed is focused on the fine points or small aspects — a detailed portrait of your grandmother includes every wisp of hair and subtle shade of skin. Detailed explanations take some time, because the person doing the explaining isn't leaving any detail out. The literal Old French meaning of the noun detail is "a cutting in pieces," and it's used to mean "small piece or quantity."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
An Ofcom spokesperson said such complaints are considered "on a case-by-case basis through a detailed and careful assessment process".
From BBC ● Jul. 20, 2026
In the future, a small blood sample could potentially be used to create a detailed risk profile covering several cardiovascular diseases at once.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 19, 2026
The president detailed that Nippon’s $14 billion investment would keep the steel business in America and add at least 70,000 jobs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 18, 2026
Clements said he found solace in that work, particularly through his website the Humble Dollar, and he detailed his actions for his readers so that they could also benefit from his experience.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 17, 2026
Washington’s notice contained detailed descriptions of the men.
From "In the Shadow of Liberty" by Kenneth C. Davis
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
