Synonyms

detect

American

[dih-tekt] / dɪˈtɛkt /

verb (used with object)

to discover or catch (a person) in the performance of some act.

to detect someone cheating.
to discover the existence of.

to detect the odor of gas.
to find out the true character or activity of.

to detect a spy.
Telecommunications.
1. to rectify alternating signal currents in a radio receiver.
2. to demodulate.

detect British

/ dɪˈtɛkt /

verb

to perceive or notice

to detect a note of sarcasm
to discover the existence or presence of (esp something likely to elude observation)

to detect alcohol in the blood
to extract information from (an electromagnetic wave)
obsolete to reveal or expose (a crime, criminal, etc)

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Usage

What are other ways to say detect?

To detect is to discover something hidden or unknown. When should you use detect over learn, discover, or ascertain? Find out on Thesaurus.com.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Conjugated Forms

Present

Past

Future

Etymology

Origin of detect

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin dētēctus “discovered,” past participle of dētegere “to uncover, discover,” from dē- de- + tegere “to cover”; see also thatch

Explanation

The verb detect means to discover or observe the existence of something. If you walk into your house and detect the odor of burnt food, you can deduce from the evidence that you will be going out to dinner tonight! The verb detect comes from the Latin word detegere, which literally means "to uncover" — or more figuratively, to discover. You may detect the presence of a new dog in your house if you note a water bowl, chew toys, and grooming tools. Of course, the large woofing beast that greeted you at the door with a wagging tail might be a big clue as well.

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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.

Combining all Asian Americans into one category can make those differences impossible to detect.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

Though time-consuming, it can detect 95% of cancers and a similar percentage of high-risk polyps.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026

"Until now, we could generate or detect these signals, but not do everything in one integrated device," Dr. Li said.

From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 2026

It will test new, cutting-edge screening techniques such as fast MRI scans and genetic spit tests to find the best ways to detect the disease.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

Emma exclaims, though I detect a hint of laughter in her voice, too.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023