detect
Americanverb (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.
-
to rectify alternating signal currents in a radio receiver.
-
to demodulate.
-
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)
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
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.
Vocabulary lists containing detect
Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
NAEP Test Words
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
List 9
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
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.
Apple created an app called Tracker Detect that allows an Android user to scan for any unknown AirTag or other tracking device nearby.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 26, 2024
If you have an Android phone, apps such as Tracker Detect can help to check for unwanted devices.
From BBC • Mar. 23, 2023
Your second option is using AirTags with an Android phone using a free app called Tracker Detect.
From Washington Post • Jan. 25, 2023
Those who attempt to use recalled tests will be notified in the Detect app that the tests can no longer be used.
From Washington Times • Dec. 13, 2022
“The latest bit of nonsense is a Committee to Detect Conspiracies. They’ve sent the hounds after us, old friend.”
From "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson
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.
