sniff out

verb

1. (tr, adverb) to detect through shrewdness or instinct

Idioms and Phrases

Uncover, as If there's anything to that rumor, Gladys will sniff it out. This expression alludes to an animal sniffing for prey. [First half of 1900s]

Related Words

• ascertain 
• bring to light 
• drive out www.thesaurus.com
• get at 
• uncover 
• unearth