detective

[dih-tek-tiv] / dɪˈtɛk tɪv /

NOUN

investigator of crime

Synonyms

STRONGEST

agent informer police officer private eye private investigator prosecutor reporter sleuth spy

STRONG

analyst bloodhound bull constable cop dick eavesdropper eye fed fink flatfoot gumshoe nark peeper roper scout sergeant shadow shamus shoofly snoop tail

WEAK

P.I. Sherlock Holmes bird dog plainclothes officer slewfoot

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.

Sheriff’s homicide detectives have assumed control of the death investigation.

From Los Angeles Times

Then on Thursday, a detective on the case told prosecutors he believed a recording played during questioning made mention of “off-duty,” which also prompted Delcid’s attorney to again request a mistrial.

From Los Angeles Times

Still others say it’s simply a matter of numbers: with lighter caseloads, homicide detectives have more time to thoroughly investigate each new killing.

From Los Angeles Times

A fifth officer, a sergeant, arrived and informed detectives that Moran was refusing a medical exam and treatment, according to the police report.

From Los Angeles Times

Also starring Yellowstone actress Kelly Reilly as a former detective, the six-part thriller will be released at the end of January.

From BBC

detective

Example Sentences

Related Words