Discovered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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discovered

[dɪˈskʌvəd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

science

Find (something or someone) unexpectedly or in the course of a search.

Synonyms

detect, find, locate, uncover.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
find	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.
uncover	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.
detect	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.
locate	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.

Examples of usage

He discovered a hidden talent for singing.
She discovered the missing piece of the puzzle.
The explorers discovered a new species of plant in the jungle.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

history

Be the first to find or observe (a place, substance, or scientific phenomenon).

Synonyms

detect, find, reveal, uncover.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
discovered	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
find	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
detect	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
uncover	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
reveal	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

Examples of usage

Columbus discovered America in 1492.
Scientists discovered the existence of DNA in the 19th century.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'discovered'

The word 'discovered' originates from the Middle English word 'discoveren', which came from the Old French word 'descovrir', meaning 'uncover, reveal'. The prefix 'dis-' implies a reversal of action, while 'cover' suggests something hidden or concealed. The concept of discovery has been fundamental to human progress, leading to new inventions, exploration, and understanding of the world.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,568, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1565 straight
1566 sell
1567 pure
1568 discovered
1569 native
1570 anyone
1571 capable
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