Discovery
/dɪˈskʌvəri/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of finding something new or realizing something for the first time.
/dɪˈskʌvəri/
The act of finding something unexpectedly or while looking for something else.
The accidental discovery of the lost diary shed light on the family's history.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're looking for your lost toy and *bam!* you suddenly find it under the couch. That's a discovery! It's like a special 'aha!' moment.
👶 For kids: Finding something new or special!
More Examples
His discovery of a hidden talent in painting surprised everyone.
The scientific discovery of the vaccine was a major breakthrough.
How It's Used
"The discovery of penicillin revolutionized medicine."
"The discovery of new lands led to increased trade routes."
"She made a surprising discovery while cleaning out the attic."
A thing or piece of information that is discovered.
/dɪˈskʌvəri/
Something that is found or learned.
The discovery of the ancient artifacts provided valuable insights into the civilization.
💡 Simply: Imagine your favorite book has a secret chapter you didn't know about – that secret chapter is a *discovery*. It's like a new piece of the puzzle!
👶 For kids: Something you find!
More Examples
The medical discovery significantly improved treatment for the disease.
The police made a crucial discovery at the crime scene.
How It's Used
"During the discovery phase, the lawyers gathered evidence."
"The latest discovery about the planet was announced to the public."
Idioms & expressions
make a discovery
To find something new or previously unknown.
"The team made a significant discovery during their expedition."
From Middle English *discoverie*, from Old French *descoverte* (noun), from *descovrir* (verb), from Vulgar Latin *discooperire*, from Latin *dis-* (apart, away) + *cooperire* (to cover).
The word 'discovery' has been used since the 14th century and initially referred to the act of revealing or uncovering something. Over time, it evolved to encompass the finding of something previously unknown.
Memory tip
Think of Columbus's discovery of America. He found a new world!
Practice
Word Origin
Root: discooperire