suss

[ suhs ]

verb (used with object)

Chiefly British Slang. to investigate or figure out (usually followed by out).

Origin of suss

First recorded in 1965–70; earlier, to suspect, a suspect, shortening of suspect

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use suss in a sentence

“It has so much to do with Amy and her reaction to Ben,” he says, attempting to suss out the surprising turn of events.
Adam Scott on ‘A.C.O.D.,’ Love & Divorce | Kevin Fallon | October 5, 2013 | THE DAILY BEAST
If you want to suss out the cleanliness and hygiene level of any hotel, take a quick look behind furniture and drapes.
Gordon Ramsay: 7 Hotel Horrors! | Gordon Ramsay | August 9, 2012 | THE DAILY BEAST

British Dictionary definitions for suss

suss

/ (sʌs) /

verb(tr) slang

(often foll by out) to attempt to work out (a situation, person's character, etc), esp using one's intuition
Also: sus to become aware of; suspect (esp in the phrase suss it)

noun

sharpness of mind; social astuteness

Origin of suss

C20: shortened from suspect

See also sus laws

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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