locates; located; locating
1
: to find the place or position of (something or someone)
We tried to locate the border of the property.
Can you locate your town on the map?
The missing boy was located by police in the woods.
The mechanic is still trying to locate the source of the problem.
Reporters have been unable to locate the mayor for his comments.
2
a
: to put (something or someone) in a particular place
The company chose to locate its factory near the airport.
The guard located [=stationed, positioned] himself by the back door.
b
US
: to make an area, city, etc., your home or the place where your business operates
The company located near the airport.
His parents located in Ohio.
c
Note: Something or someone that is located in a specified place is in or at that place.
Cite this Entry
“Locate.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/locate. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
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