Detective - Wikipedia
A detective is an investigator, usually a member of a law enforcement agency. They often collect information to solve crimes by talking to witnesses and informants, collecting physical evidence, or searching records in databases. This leads them to arrest criminals and enable them to be convicted in court. [1] A detective may work for the police or privately.

DETECTIVE Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
The meaning of DETECTIVE is fitted for or used in detecting something. How to use detective in a sentence.

What does a detective do? - CareerExplorer
What is a Detective? A detective specializes in solving crimes and gathering evidence to support legal proceedings. Detectives play an important role in the criminal justice system, working closely with law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders to uncover the truth behind complex cases. Their primary objective is to identify perpetrators, establish motives, and present a compelling case ...

What is a Detective | What is a Criminal Investigator
A police detective, also referred to as a criminal investigator, is a sworn law enforcement professional who investigates felony (and sometimes misdemeanor) crimes. Criminal investigators conduct investigations, gather evidence, and build and prepare cases to help ensure prosecutors are able to get a conviction, and often even testify in court themselves.

Becoming a Detective: Careers, Salary, and Requirements
A detective and a criminal investigator, often called special agents, have the job of collecting evidence and gathering facts of possible crimes.

How to Become a Police Detective (2026 Guide)
How to become a police detective: education requirements, patrol experience, promotional exams, certifications, salary range, and career paths.

Detective - definition of detective by The Free Dictionary
Define detective. detective synonyms, detective pronunciation, detective translation, English dictionary definition of detective. n. A person, usually a member of a police force, who investigates crimes and obtains evidence or information. adj. 1. Of or relating to detectives or their...

DETECTIVE | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary
DETECTIVE definition: 1. someone whose job is to discover information about crimes and find out who is responsible for…. Learn more.

10 Types of Detectives (With Salaries and Job Outlook) - Indeed
Learn what a detective is, explore the types of detectives and read answers to frequently asked questions about salary, career outlook and job requirements.

Detective - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Detective A detective is a person who figures out who committed a crime. Most detectives are police officers. Some are hired by a private person or company, for example to stop theft. Those are called private investigators. There are many stories about detectives.