Discovered: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when locating or identifying something that was lost or not immediately obvious, usually with some effort.

• I finally found my keys under the couch.
• He managed to find a solution to the problem.

Used when revealing something hidden, secret, or covered, often through investigation or effort.

• The journalist uncovered evidence of corruption within the government.
• When the snow melted, it uncovered the beautiful flowers underneath.

Used when identifying something that is not immediately visible or obvious, often through careful observation or special equipment.

• Doctors can detect the early signs of cancer using advanced screening methods.
• The security system is designed to detect any unauthorized access.

Used when pinpointing an exact position or place, often through systematic search or investigation.

• We need to locate the nearest hospital.
• The detective was able to locate the missing person after weeks of searching.

Used when someone finds something that was not known before, often through exploration, investigation, or research.

• Marie Curie discovered the element radium
• The scientists discovered a new species in the rainforest

This is a general term for coming across something either intentionally or by chance. It’s used in everyday conversations.

• I can't find my keys
• We managed to find the hidden treasure

Commonly used in scientific, medical, or technical contexts to indicate the uncovering or identification of something that is not easily noticeable.

• The doctor was able to detect the early signs of the disease
• Sensors can detect motion in the room

Often used to describe the discovery of something hidden, secret, or buried, with a connotation of removing a covering to expose what is underneath.

• The archaeologists uncovered an ancient burial site
• The journalist uncovered a major corruption scandal

Used when something that was previously hidden or unknown is shown or made known, often through deliberate disclosure.

• The magician revealed his trick to the audience
• The investigation revealed some surprising facts