detect
UK: dɪˈtekt | US: dɪˈtekt
vt. to discover or notice the presence of something hidden or obscure
vt. to discern or identify through careful observation or investigation
vt. (technology) to sense or register a signal, substance, or condition
The word "detect" originates from Latin detectus (uncovered), the past participle of detegere (to uncover). The morpheme de- reverses the action of tect (cover), creating the sense of "removing a cover" → "revealing something hidden." This logical progression reflects its modern meanings of discovery or sensing.
The device can detect even the slightest changes in temperature.
She detected a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
Early tests failed to detect the virus in the sample.
The software detects errors in the code automatically.
His keen eyes detected movement in the shadows.