discover
26 synonyms and 6 antonyms for discover, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To find or learn something for the first time.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use discover
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French descovrir, "to uncover," from Latin dis- plus cooperire ("to cover completely") — literally, to remove a covering.
Full origin of discover →Frequently asked questions
What does “discover” mean?
The word “discover” means to find or learn something for the first time. In plain terms, to find something new, or to become aware of a fact for the first time.
How do you pronounce “discover”?
“Discover” is pronounced dih-SKUH-vuh (/dɪˈskʌvɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “discover” in a sentence?
Here is “discover” used in a sentence: “Scientists discovered a new species of frog deep in the rainforest.”
What is another word for “discover”?
Words with a similar meaning to “discover” include catch, check, come upon, detect, determine and disinter.
What is the opposite of “discover”?
The opposite of “discover” — its antonyms — are conceal, cover, cover up, hide and miss.
What part of speech is “discover”?
“Discover” is a verb.
Where does the word “discover” come from?
The word “discover” comes from Latin. From Old French descovrir, "to uncover," from Latin dis- plus cooperire ("to cover completely") — literally, to remove a covering.
Is “discover” a common word?
“Discover” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between discover and invent?
You discover something that already existed but was unknown, such as a planet, a species, or a fact. You invent something that did not exist before, such as a machine or a process, so scientists discovered electricity's properties but inventors created the light bulb.
What is the difference between discover and find?
Find is the general word for coming across something, whether or not it is new, as in finding your keys. Discover implies finding or learning something for the first time, often something significant or previously unknown, which is why explorers and researchers discover rather than merely find.
Can discover mean to realize something?
Yes, discover commonly means to become aware of a fact, as in she discovered that the door had been left unlocked. In this sense it is close to realize or find out, rather than physically locating something.
What is the difference between discover and explore?
Explore means to travel through or examine a place or subject in order to learn about it, and it describes the ongoing process. Discover refers to the moment of actually finding or learning something new, so explorers explore a region and may discover a river within it.