Sleuth
/sluːθ/noun
A person who investigates or searches for information, especially in order to solve a mystery.
Did you know?The word 'sleuth' is derived from an Old Norse term meaning 'to track' or 'to trail', linking it to the ancient art of hunting and tracking spirits as well as animals.
Etymological Timeline
Old Norse
Old Norse
sloð
“to track or trail, particularly in the context of hunting.”
Middle English
Middle English
sleuthe
“an act of tracking or a trail; connected to the pursuit of game.”
14th Century
English
sleuth
“a person who tracks or hunts, especially in relation to criminal investigations.”
Modern English
English
sleuth
“to investigate or act like a detective, still tied to its roots of tracking.”