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Sleuths Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sleuths

[sluːθs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

investigative work

Sleuths are individuals who are skilled in solving mysteries or crimes by examining and analyzing evidence.

Synonyms

detective, inspector, investigator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sleuths

Informal and sometimes playful or old-fashioned settings. It can refer to amateur detectives or people who enjoy solving mysteries.

  • The kids turned into sleuths for the day to find out who took the cookies
  • The novel's group of sleuths made the story exciting
detective

General term used for a person who solves crimes, both in professional and fictional settings. Commonly used in literature, movies, and TV shows.

  • The detective questioned all the witnesses to get to the bottom of the case
  • Sherlock Holmes is a famous fictional detective
investigator

Broad term used for anyone who investigates crimes or other situations requiring detailed examination. It encompasses various fields, including private investigations and official police work.

  • The company hired an investigator to look into the fraud allegations
  • The investigator gathered all the necessary information for the case
inspector

Typically used in formal settings and titles within police departments. It refers to a higher-ranking officer who supervises investigations.

  • Inspector Smith is in charge of the homicide division
  • The inspector reviewed the evidence carefully

Examples of usage

  • The sleuths carefully inspected the crime scene for any clues.
  • The team of sleuths worked together to unravel the complex case.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

Sleuths can also refer to amateur detectives or those who enjoy solving puzzles and mysteries as a hobby.

Synonyms

mystery enthusiast, puzzle solver.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sleuths

This appears to be a repetition, see above for details.
puzzle solver

Describes someone skilled in solving various types of puzzles, not necessarily limited to mysteries or crimes.

  • She's a fantastic puzzle solver and can complete a crossword in minutes.
  • During the game night, he proved to be the best puzzle solver.
mystery enthusiast

Used for someone who enjoys reading or engaging with mystery stories and puzzles, often as a hobby.

  • As a mystery enthusiast, she had read every Agatha Christie novel.
  • The club was full of mystery enthusiasts eager to discuss the latest detective series.

Examples of usage

  • She's quite the sleuth when it comes to solving crossword puzzles.
  • The group of sleuths gathered every weekend to crack codes and solve riddles.

Translations

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

Origin of 'sleuths'

The word 'sleuths' originates from the Old Norse word 'sloetha', meaning 'track, trail'. It was first recorded in English in the late 19th century, gaining popularity through detective novels and mystery stories. Over time, 'sleuths' has become synonymous with skilled investigators and amateur detectives alike, capturing the imagination of those intrigued by solving puzzles and unraveling mysteries.

See also: sleuth, sleuthing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,173, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.