detect
Usage
What are other ways to say detect?
To detect implies becoming aware of something that had been obscure, secret, or concealed: to detect a flaw in reasoning. To ascertain is to verify facts by inquiry or analysis: to ascertain the truth about an event. To learn is to add to one's knowledge or information: to learn a language. The verb discover is used with objective clauses as a synonym of learn in order to suggest that the new information acquired is surprising to the learner: I discovered that she had been married before.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Unlike ordinary matter, dark matter does not interact with light or electromagnetic forces, making gravity the only known way to detect its presence.
From Science Daily • May 19, 2026
Dr Andreas Krieg, a security expert from King's College London, told BBC Verify the fibre-optics render Israel's capacity to detect, jam and intercept drones "largely irrelevant" and makes finding the operator significantly more challenging.
From BBC • May 16, 2026
During these missions, scientists placed ocean bottom seismometers, instruments designed to detect earthquakes directly on the seafloor, along two parts of the Gofar fault.
From Science Daily • May 16, 2026
Using advanced simulations of the Milky Way and predictions of Roman's future observations, researchers found the space telescope could detect and study dozens of isolated neutron stars through a phenomenon known as gravitational microlensing.
From Science Daily • May 15, 2026
The surgeons couldn't detect the pathway with their probes past a broken rib.
From "Ambushed!" by Gail Jarrow
Vocabulary lists containing detect
Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
NAEP Test Words
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
List 9
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
