private investigator

noun

1. private detective. PI, p.i., P.I.

Word History and Origins

Origin of private investigator¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

The claims include that it hired private investigators to bug homes, to engage in phone-hacking and to dishonestly gather medical and financial information.

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In September, a private investigator allegedly hired by the Zambian government visited the morgue and demanded to see the deceased, according to family spokesman Makebi Zulu.

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Emma Thompson as a private investigator and Ruth Wilson as a woman seeking answers to the apparent disappearance of a child.

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This British crime drama is led by Academy Award winner Emma Thompson as a tough private investigator, and that alone is probably enough convincing anyone would need to tune in.

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Anthony Roman, a private investigator with art-crime experience, said he was surprised the crown was left behind, given its historic and market value.

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Related Words

• P.I. 
• inquiry agent www.thesaurus.com
• private detective 
• private dick www.thesaurus.com
• private eye 
• private investigator 
• sleuth