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. 1. a police officer who investigates crimes

   2. See private detective

   3. ( as modifier )

      a detective story

adjective

1. used in or serving for detection

2. serving to detect

Word History and Origins

Origin of detective¹

First recorded in 1830–40; detect + -ive

Example Sentences

In a recorded confession reported by KTLA, Ali described to detectives how, after returning from dropping off their 2- and 5-year-old sons, he left his trunk open and approached Castillo’s door, which he found unlocked.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

However, detectives did not rule out that the body had been dumped prior to 2004.

Read more on BBC

As part of their investigation, detectives searched the Hollywood Hills home where D4vd lived and removed electronic devices and other items from the residence, which the singer’s manager had leased, according to the owner.

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The British actress has appeared in two Godzilla films and a Sherlock Holmes spin-off, based on the detective's teenager sister, Enola.

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Both suspects are being held without bail at the Long Beach Jail, and detectives plan to present the case to the L.A.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• agent 
• informer 
• police officer 
• private eye 
• private investigator 
• prosecutor 
• reporter 
• sleuth 
• spy