121 Another Word for Detective? – Detective Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say detective differently? Here are other words for detective and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of detective

A person, especially a police officer, whose job is to find out and investigate the facts about a crime or other difficult situation.

Etymology of detective

The word "detective" originated in the mid-19th century from the verb "detect", which is derived from the Latin "detegere", meaning "to uncover" or "to expose".
The term initially referred to a police officer who investigated crimes, but its usage has expanded to include private investigators and others who engage in investigative work.

Synonyms

investigator sleuth examiner inquirer researcher analyzer inspector observer watcher spotter tracker tracer pursuer chaser follower tail shadow spy informant agent operative officer constable policeman policewoman cop trooper marshal deputy private eye gumshoe snoop snooper.

Definitions

  • A person who investigates and tries to solve crimes, especially a police officer.
  • A person who investigates and tries to find the truth about something.

Usage Examples

  • The detective was tasked with solving the complex murder case.
  • She worked as a detective for the police department before starting her own private investigation firm.
  • The detective carefully examined the evidence to piece together the events of the crime.

Antonyms

culprit offender perpetrator suspect accused defendant prisoner convict felon wrongdoer lawbreaker criminal delinquent offender villain scapegoat patsy fall guy accomplice accessory partner in crime.

Related Adjectives

investigative inquiring examining analytical research-oriented inspecting observational surveillance pursuasive chasing following shadowy sneaky snoopy secretive undercover covert clandestine furtive stealthy mysterious.

Related Nouns

investigation inquiry examination analysis research inspection observation surveillance pursuit chase follow-up probe scrutiny review assessment evaluation appraisal estimation judgment verdict finding conclusion.

Related Verbs

investigate inquire examine analyze research inspect observe watch track follow pursue chase tail shadow spy snoop sleuth uncover discover reveal expose solve crack unravel.
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