detect

[ dih-tekt ]

verb (used with object)

1. to discover or catch (a person) in the performance of some act:

   to detect someone cheating.

2. to discover the existence of:

   to detect the odor of gas.

3. to find out the true character or activity of:

   to detect a spy.

4. Telecommunications.
   1. to rectify alternating signal currents in a radio receiver.
   2. to demodulate.

detect

/ dɪˈtɛkt /

verb

1. to perceive or notice

   to detect a note of sarcasm

2. to discover the existence or presence of (esp something likely to elude observation)

   to detect alcohol in the blood

3. to extract information from (an electromagnetic wave)
4. obsolete.
   to reveal or expose (a crime, criminal, etc)

Derived Forms

• deˈtecter, noun
• deˈtectable, adjective

Other Words From

• de·tecta·ble de·tecti·ble adjective
• de·tecta·bili·ty de·tecti·bili·ty noun
• prede·tect verb (used with object)
• unde·tecta·ble adjective
• unde·tecta·bly adverb
• unde·tected adjective
• unde·tecti·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of detect¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin dētēctus “discovered,” past participle of dētegere “to uncover, discover,” from dē- de- + tegere “to cover”; thatch

Word History and Origins

Origin of detect¹

C15: from Latin dētectus uncovered, from dētegere to uncover, from de- + tegere to cover

Example Sentences

On Monday, Bishop Brennan said a larger review under the investigation detected other instances of administrative impropriety, including Mr Gigantiello using a credit card for personal expenses.

From BBC

The new method takes a deeper look at the proteins in plasma and reveals biomarkers that enable researchers -- and ultimately physicians -- to detect diseases sooner.

From Science Daily

In the calcium channel there are four so-called voltage sensors that detect electrical nerve impulses.

From Science Daily

However, detecting and monitoring these pollutants is challenging for two reasons.

From Science Daily

Andrews then placed the tissue on a bed of electrodes small enough to detect the electrical discharges of neurons communicating with each other.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• catch
• disclose
• distinguish
• encounter
• expose
• find
• identify
• notice
• observe
• recognize
• reveal
• see
• spot
• uncover

When To Use

What are other ways to say detect?

To detect is to discover something hidden or unknown. When should you use detect over learn, discover, or ascertain? Find out on Thesaurus.com.