Investigator

Definition

A person who carries out a systematic inquiry or study, especially in order to discover or establish facts or information.

Parts of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

American English

IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈvɛstəˌɡeɪtər/
Respelling: in-VES-tuh-gay-ter (with "in" as in "tin," "VES" as in "vest," "tuh" as in "sofa," "gay" as in "say," and "ter" as in "her")

British English

IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈvɛstəˌɡeɪtə/
Respelling: in-VES-tuh-gay-tuh (with "in" as in "tin," "VES" as in "vest," "tuh" as in "sofa," "gay" as in "say," and "tuh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "investigator" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "VES," and the secondary stress on "gay." The American pronunciation includes a pronounced "ter" sound, while the British pronunciation has a softer "tuh" sound.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "investigare" meaning "to trace out", which is formed from "in-" (into) + "vestigium" (footprint).

Derivatives

Investigate (verb)
Investigation (noun)
Investigative (adjective)
Investigatory (adjective)
Reinvestigate (verb)

Synonyms

Detective
Examiner
Sleuth

Antonyms

None

Usage

Investigators are employed in various fields, including law enforcement, private investigation, and scientific research, to uncover truths, gather evidence, and solve complex problems.

Related Terms

Inquiry
Probe
Inspection
Scrutiny
Examination

Detailed Definition

Noun

Investigator (Noun): An individual who carries out a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of an incident, allegation, or mystery.
- Example: "The police investigator worked tirelessly to solve the case."‍
- Example: "The company hired an investigator to look into the financial discrepancies."
- Example: "As the lead investigator on the case, Detective Smith was determined to find the perpetrator."

Note: The term "investigator" primarily pertains to someone who systematically examines or inquires into specific matters, often with the aim of discovering new information or solving a problem or case.