sleuth

[slooth]

noun

1. a detective.

   Synonyms: shamus, gumshoe, private eye, private investigator, investigator

2. a bloodhound, a dog used for tracking.

verb (used with or without object)

1. to track or trail, as a detective.

sleuth

/ sluːθ /

noun

1. an informal word for detective

2. short for sleuthhound

verb

1. (tr) to track or follow

Other Word Forms

• sleuthlike adjective
• supersleuth noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sleuth¹

First recorded in 1875–80; short for sleuthhound

Word History and Origins

Origin of sleuth¹

C19: short for sleuthhound, from C12 sleuth trail, from Old Norse sloth; see _slot ²

Example Sentences

Shortly after rumors of an alleged new flame spread, internet sleuths were quick to point out that Urban had changed the lyrics to one of his songs to honor a band mate during his tour.

From Los Angeles Times

In “The Thursday Murder Club’s” fifth outing, the Coopers Chase retirement community’s amateur sleuths are in a lull after their last case.

From Los Angeles Times

Those amateur sleuths, who monitor flight traffic and identified the first flight, which was confirmed by Customs and Border Protection, shared their findings on social media.

From Los Angeles Times

But now, after an internet sleuth joined the search, the mystery man has finally been identified.

From BBC

And with Swift's fans seconding as super sleuths, the artist has her work cut out for her.

From BBC

Related Words

• gumshoe 
• private detective 
• private eye