Top 41 Slang For Discover – Meaning & Usage

In a world where new words and phrases are constantly being coined, staying up-to-date with the latest slang can be a challenge. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered! Discover a whole new world of trendy expressions and idioms with our curated list of the top slang for “discover”. From the streets to social media, we’ve scoured the internet to bring you the most relevant and exciting terms that will have you speaking like a true trendsetter. Get ready to impress your friends and expand your linguistic repertoire!

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1. Unearth

To uncover or discover something that was previously hidden or unknown. “Unearth” is often used to describe the act of finding something valuable or significant.

For example, a archaeologist might say, “We unearthed ancient artifacts during our excavation.”
A journalist might report, “The investigation unearthed new evidence in the case.”
A person discussing a hidden talent might say, “I recently unearthed my passion for painting.”

2. Spot

To see or observe something, often when it is not easily noticeable or hidden. “Spot” is commonly used to describe the act of quickly noticing or identifying something.

For instance, a person might say, “I spotted a rare bird in my backyard.”
A detective might say, “I spotted a suspicious individual near the crime scene.”
A friend might point out, “I spotted your favorite celebrity at the mall.”

3. Detect

To discover or identify the presence of something, often through careful observation or the use of specialized equipment. “Detect” is frequently used in scientific or technical contexts.

For example, a scientist might say, “We detected high levels of pollution in the water.”
A security officer might report, “The surveillance system detected movement in the restricted area.”
A person discussing their intuition might say, “I can often detect when someone is lying.”

4. Discern

To perceive or recognize something, especially when it is not easily distinguishable or clear. “Discern” is often used to describe the act of seeing or understanding something with clarity.

For instance, a person might say, “I can discern the subtle differences between various types of wine.”
A teacher might say, “It’s important for students to discern reliable sources of information.”
A friend might comment, “I can discern your true feelings even when you try to hide them.”

5. Ascertain

To determine or find out something for certain, often through investigation or careful observation. “Ascertain” is commonly used to describe the act of obtaining accurate information or verifying a fact.

For example, a detective might say, “We need to ascertain the suspect’s alibi.”
A researcher might report, “We conducted experiments to ascertain the effectiveness of the new drug.”
A person discussing their goals might say, “I’m still trying to ascertain my true passion in life.”

6. Ferret out

To diligently search for and find information or uncover a hidden truth. The phrase “ferret out” is often used to describe the process of uncovering something through persistent investigation.

For example, a detective might say, “I will ferret out the truth and find the real culprit.”
In a discussion about investigative journalism, someone might comment, “Journalists have a duty to ferret out corruption and expose it to the public.”
A person might use the phrase figuratively and say, “I had to ferret out all the details of the story before I could write about it.”

7. Notice

To become aware of or observe something. “Notice” is a common term used to describe the act of perceiving or recognizing something that catches your attention.

For instance, someone might say, “I noticed a strange noise coming from the basement.”
In a conversation about changes in appearance, a person might comment, “I noticed you got a haircut. It looks great!”
A teacher might say to a student, “I noticed your improvement in math. Keep up the good work!”

8. Realize

To understand or become aware of something that was previously unknown or unclear. “Realize” is often used to describe the process of coming to a realization or understanding.

For example, someone might say, “I realized I had left my keys at home when I got to the office.”
In a discussion about personal growth, a person might say, “I realized that I needed to make changes in my life to be happier.”
A character in a novel might have a moment of realization and say, “I realized that I had been chasing the wrong dreams all along.”

9. Recognize

To identify or acknowledge someone or something based on previous knowledge or familiarity. “Recognize” is often used to describe the act of perceiving or remembering something or someone from the past.

For instance, someone might say, “I recognize that face from somewhere, but I can’t remember where.”
In a conversation about achievements, a person might comment, “I recognize your hard work and dedication.”
A teacher might say to a student, “I recognize your talent in art. Keep exploring and developing your skills!”

10. Reveal

To make something known or visible that was previously hidden or secret. “Reveal” is often used to describe the act of disclosing or exposing something.

For example, a magician might say, “And now, I will reveal the secret behind this trick.”
In a discussion about a surprise party, someone might say, “We need to be careful not to accidentally reveal the surprise to the birthday person.”
A journalist might write, “The leaked documents revealed the shocking truth about government corruption.”

11. Learn

This slang term is used to describe the act of acquiring new knowledge or skills. It often implies a process of gaining understanding through study or experience.

For example, a student might say, “I need to learn more about this subject before the exam.”
A person might exclaim, “I can’t believe I just learned how to play the guitar!”
In a conversation about hobbies, someone might ask, “Have you ever learned how to knit?”

12. Invent

To invent something means to create or develop something new, often through a process of imagination or ingenuity. It is the act of bringing something into existence that did not previously exist.

For instance, a scientist might say, “I have invented a new device that can generate clean energy.”
A child playing pretend might declare, “I just invented a machine that can make ice cream out of thin air!”
In a discussion about technological advancements, someone might mention, “Steve Jobs helped invent the modern smartphone.”

13. Originate

To originate means to be the source or beginning of something. It refers to the act of being the first instance or cause of something.

For example, a historian might say, “The Renaissance originated in Italy during the 14th century.”
A person discussing the history of a specific dish might mention, “Pizza originated in Naples, Italy.”
In a conversation about language, someone might ask, “Where did the English language originate?”

14. Determine

To determine means to find out or come to a decision through investigation or analysis. It refers to the act of establishing or ascertaining something.

For instance, a detective might say, “We need to determine who the suspect is based on the evidence.”
A person trying to solve a puzzle might exclaim, “I can’t wait to determine the answer!”
In a discussion about a complex problem, someone might ask, “How can we determine the best course of action?”

15. Devise

To devise means to create or invent something, often through careful planning or creative thinking. It refers to the act of formulating or designing something.

For example, an engineer might say, “I have devised a new system to improve efficiency.”
A writer might mention, “I need to devise a plot twist that will surprise the readers.”
In a conversation about problem-solving, someone might suggest, “Let’s devise a strategy to overcome this challenge.”

16. Disclose

To reveal or make known something that was previously secret or unknown. “Spill the beans” is a slang term often used to indicate someone disclosing information.

For example, a friend might say, “Come on, spill the beans! What happened last night?”
In a gossip-filled conversation, someone might exclaim, “I can’t believe she spilled the beans about their relationship!”
A journalist might write, “The whistleblower finally spilled the beans about the company’s illegal activities.”

17. Explore

To investigate or examine a topic or subject in depth. “Delve into” is a phrase often used to express the act of exploring or discovering.

For instance, a teacher might encourage students to “delve into” a particular historical event for a research project.
In a conversation about travel, someone might say, “I can’t wait to delve into the culture and cuisine of Italy.”
A book review might state, “This novel allows readers to delve into the complexities of human relationships.”

18. Hear

To learn about or become aware of something. “Catch wind of” is a slang phrase often used to describe hearing or discovering information.

For example, a friend might say, “I caught wind of a new restaurant opening downtown.”
In a conversation about upcoming events, someone might ask, “Have you caught wind of any good concerts happening?”
A news headline might read, “Rumors swirl as residents catch wind of potential tax increases.”

19. Design

To create or come up with something, often through creative thinking or planning. “Cook up” is a slang term that can be used to describe the act of designing or inventing.

For instance, a chef might say, “I’m going to cook up a new recipe using these unique ingredients.”
In a discussion about product development, someone might mention, “Our team is cooking up some innovative designs for the next release.”
A creative writer might say, “I’m cooking up a thrilling plot twist for my latest novel.”

20. Identify

To discover or determine the exact identity or location of something. “Pinpoint” is a term often used to describe the act of identifying or discovering with precision.

For example, a detective might say, “We need to pinpoint the exact time of the crime.”
In a conversation about finding a solution, someone might suggest, “Let’s pinpoint the root cause of the problem.”
A scientist might write, “Our research aims to pinpoint the genetic factors contributing to the disease.”

21. Locate

To find or discover the exact position or place of something or someone.

For example, “I need to locate my keys before I can leave.”
A detective might say, “We need to locate the suspect as soon as possible.”
Someone searching for a specific store might ask, “Can you help me locate the nearest coffee shop?”

22. Uncover

To reveal or make known something that was previously hidden or secret.

For instance, “The journalist worked tirelessly to uncover the truth.”
A researcher might say, “Our study aims to uncover the causes of this rare disease.”
A friend might uncover a surprise party by saying, “I accidentally uncovered your birthday present in the closet.”

23. Perceive

To notice or become aware of something through the senses or intuition.

For example, “I perceive a change in your attitude.”
A person might say, “I perceive a hint of sarcasm in your tone.”
A teacher might ask, “Can you perceive the subtle differences between these two paintings?”

24. Observe

To see, watch, or notice something with attention or intention.

For instance, “I observed a beautiful sunset from my balcony.”
A scientist might say, “We need to observe the behavior of these animals in their natural habitat.”
A parent might observe their child’s soccer game and say, “I’m proud of how well you played today.”

25. Stumble upon

To find or discover something unexpectedly or by chance.

For example, “While hiking, I stumbled upon a hidden waterfall.”
A person might say, “I stumbled upon an interesting article while browsing the internet.”
A traveler might share, “I stumbled upon a charming little café in the streets of Paris.”

26. Find out

To obtain knowledge or information about something.

For example, “I need to find out what time the movie starts.”
A person might say, “I found out that my favorite band is coming to town.”
Another might ask, “Did you find out who won the game last night?”

27. Dig up

To uncover or discover something, especially something that was hidden or unknown.

For instance, “I managed to dig up some old photos from my childhood.”
A person might say, “I dug up some interesting facts about the history of this town.”
Another might exclaim, “I can’t believe what I dug up while researching my family tree!”

28. Come across

To find or encounter something by chance or unexpectedly.

For example, “I came across a great book at the library.”
A person might say, “I came across an interesting article while browsing the internet.”
Another might share, “I came across an old photo album while cleaning out my attic.”

29. Figure out

To understand or solve a problem or mystery.

For instance, “I need to figure out how to fix my car.”
A person might say, “I finally figured out the answer to that riddle.”
Another might ask, “Can you help me figure out this math problem?”

30. Learn of

To become aware or informed about something.

For example, “I just learned of a new restaurant in town.”
A person might say, “I recently learned of a great vacation spot.”
Another might share, “I learned of a new job opportunity through a friend.”

31. Hit upon

To accidentally discover or find something unexpected or valuable.

For example, “I hit upon a great idea for a new business.”
Someone might say, “I hit upon a hidden gem of a restaurant while exploring the city.”
A person discussing their research might mention, “I hit upon an interesting finding during my experiments.”

32. Encounter

To meet or experience something or someone unexpectedly.

For instance, “I encountered a strange creature while hiking in the woods.”
A traveler might say, “I encountered a friendly local who gave me recommendations for the best places to visit.”
A person sharing a story might recount, “I encountered a challenging situation at work and had to find a solution.”

33. Expose

To reveal or make something known that was previously hidden or secret.

For example, “The journalist exposed the corruption within the government.”
A whistleblower might say, “I exposed the company’s unethical practices.”
A person discussing a scandal might mention, “The leaked documents exposed the truth behind the controversy.”

34. Unveil

To make something known or visible for the first time.

For instance, “The company unveiled its new product at the conference.”
An artist might say, “I unveiled my latest masterpiece at the gallery.”
A person discussing a surprise might say, “I can’t wait to unveil my gift to you.”

35. Track down

To find or locate someone or something, often after a search or investigation.

For example, “I tracked down the owner of the lost dog and returned it.”
A detective might say, “I tracked down the suspect and made the arrest.”
A person discussing their genealogy research might mention, “I tracked down my long-lost relatives through extensive online searches.”

36. Unmask

To reveal the true identity or nature of someone or something. “Unmask” is often used metaphorically to describe the act of uncovering a hidden truth or revealing someone’s true intentions.

For example, a journalist might say, “I was able to unmask the corrupt politician and expose their illegal activities.”
In a mystery novel, a detective might say, “I finally unmasked the killer and discovered their motive.”
A person might use the term in a personal context and say, “I finally unmasked my true feelings and confessed my love.”

37. Dredge up

To bring up or bring back something from the past, often with the intention of discussing or revisiting it. “Dredge up” is commonly used when referring to old memories, past events, or forgotten information.

For instance, during a family gathering, someone might say, “Let’s not dredge up old arguments and focus on enjoying the present.”
In a therapy session, a psychologist might encourage a patient to “dredge up” childhood memories to understand their current behavior.
A person might say, “I didn’t mean to dredge up painful memories, I was just trying to understand your perspective.”

38. Suss out

To investigate, analyze, or understand something through careful examination or observation. “Suss out” is often used when trying to decipher or uncover information that is not readily apparent.

For example, a detective might say, “I need more time to suss out the suspect’s alibi.”
In a business context, a manager might say, “Let’s suss out the market trends before making any decisions.”
A person might use the term in a personal context and say, “I need some time to suss out my feelings before committing to a relationship.”

39. Turn up

To discover or come across something unexpectedly or by chance. “Turn up” can refer to finding something that was lost or discovering something new.

For instance, a person might say, “I turned up an old photo album while cleaning the attic.”
In a treasure hunt, a participant might exclaim, “I can’t believe I turned up the hidden clue!”
A person might use the term in a personal context and say, “I never expected to turn up such a great opportunity.”

40. Distinguish

To recognize or identify the unique qualities or characteristics of someone or something. “Distinguish” is often used when talking about recognizing the differences between similar things or individuals.

For example, a wine connoisseur might say, “I can easily distinguish between a Cabernet Sauvignon and a Merlot.”
In a crowded room, a person might say, “His distinctive voice helped me distinguish him from the others.”
A person might use the term in a personal context and say, “It’s important to distinguish between constructive criticism and personal attacks.”

41. Unravel

To unravel means to figure out or solve a problem or mystery. It is often used when trying to understand something that is complex or confusing.

For example, “I finally unraveled the mystery behind the missing cookies.”
In a discussion about a difficult math problem, someone might say, “I spent hours trying to unravel the solution.”
A detective might say, “It took months to unravel the truth in this case.”