Synonyms of investigator

investigator

noun

in-ˈve-stə-ˌgā-tər 

1

as in researcher

one who observes or studies by close examination and systematic inquiry

investigators who discovered new evidence that the universe was much older than had been previously estimated

Synonyms & Similar Words

• researcher
• experimenter
• observer
• examiner
• monitor
• inspector
• fact finder
• empiricist
• empiric
• field-worker

2

as in detective

a person not on the police force who investigates criminal or illicit activity or searches for missing persons

the investigator in charge of the case was touted as an expert at tracing stolen art

Synonyms & Similar Words

• detective
• operative
• sleuth
• private investigator
• dick
• gumshoe
• private detective
• private eye
• sleuthhound
• shamus
• sherlock
• tracker
• tracer
• hawkshaw
• Federal
• tail
• plainclothesman
• narc
• fed
• shadow
• G-man

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of investigator

In New Jersey, investigators used license plate reader data to help solve an armed robbery. — N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 8 Aug. 2026

Although investigators haven’t determined a motive for the malfeasance, theories abound. — Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 8 Aug. 2026

The internal affairs investigator recommended a verbal reprimand, which was approved by Sheriff Ric Bradshaw. — Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 7 Aug. 2026

Michigan officials on Saturday reported cyberattacks on nine of the state’s water systems, as investigators look into whether Iran is linked to a spate of similar hacks on states across the country. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2026

Phrases Containing investigator

• private investigator