Dictionary
1detective
adjective de·tec·tive \di-ˈtek-tiv\
: done in order to find out hidden or unknown information
: of or relating to crimes and detectives
Full Definition of DETECTIVE
1
: fitted for or used in detecting something <had perfected his detective sensibilities>
2
: of or relating to detectives or their work <a detective novel>
— de·tec·tive·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective
See detective defined for English-language learners
See detective defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of DETECTIVE
1732
Rhymes with DETECTIVE
2detective
noun
: a police officer whose job is to find information about crimes that have occurred and to catch criminals
: a person whose job is to find information about something or someone
Full Definition of DETECTIVE
: one employed or engaged in detecting lawbreakers or in getting information that is not readily or publicly accessible
See detective defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of DETECTIVE
1849
Related to DETECTIVE
- Synonyms
- dick, gumshoe, hawkshaw, investigator, operative, private detective, private eye, private investigator, shamus [slang], sherlock, sleuth, sleuthhound
DETECTIVE[1] Defined for Kids
detective
noun de·tec·tive \di-ˈtek-tiv\
Definition of DETECTIVE for Kids
1
: a police officerwho investigates crimes and catches criminals
2
: a person whose job is to find information about someone or something
Learn More About DETECTIVE
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up detective? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).