Discover
/dɪˈskʌvər/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo find something unexpectedly or while looking for something else; to become aware of something; to learn of something.
/dɪˈskʌvər/
To find unexpectedly or during a search.
He discovered a hidden talent for singing.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing hide-and-seek, and you find the best hiding spot ever! Discover is like finding something cool that you didn't know was there before. Like when you find a secret candy stash or a new park!
👶 For kids: To find something new or something that was hidden.
More Examples
Archaeologists discovered ancient artifacts at the dig site.
We discovered that our favorite restaurant had closed down.
How It's Used
"Scientists discovered a new species of butterfly in the Amazon rainforest."
"The explorers discovered a hidden cave during their hike."
To become aware of something, to realize or find out.
/dɪˈskʌvər/
To realize or become aware of.
I discovered I had a problem when the bill was due.
💡 Simply: It's like when you realize something you didn't know before. Like when you discover that your best friend is secretly a great dancer. It's that 'aha!' moment when you learn something new.
👶 For kids: To find out something new or to understand something better.
More Examples
They discovered that the house had been sold.
He discovered the truth about his friend's secret.
How It's Used
"She discovered her passion for painting after taking an art class."
"He discovered that she was not telling the truth."
Idioms & expressions
discover something new
To find or learn about something previously unknown.
"The explorers were excited to discover something new in the uncharted territory."
From Old French *descovrir*, derived from the prefix *des-* (meaning 'un-') and *covrir* (meaning 'to cover'), from Latin *cooperire*.
The word 'discover' has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to uncovering something hidden. Its use expanded with the Age of Exploration.
Memory tip
Imagine un-covering something that was hidden or unknown.
Word Origin
"to uncover, to reveal"