as in detectives
a person not on the police force who investigates criminal or illicit activity or searches for missing persons
the retired policeman decided to become a private investigator
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Recent Examples of private investigators
Many now have cameras, hire private investigators and offer cash rewards to try to catch the thieves.
—
Nick Ferraro, Boston Herald, 23 Sep. 2025
Many now have cameras, hire private investigators and offer cash rewards to try to catch the thieves.
—Nick Ferraro, Twin Cities, 19 Sep. 2025
The suit also alleges that Fox News pressures its guests not to appear on Newsmax and has hired private investigators to target Newsmax executives in an effort to drag down the channel.
—Gene Maddaus, Variety, 5 Sep. 2025
Nick Ferraro, Boston Herald, 23 Sep. 2025
Many now have cameras, hire private investigators and offer cash rewards to try to catch the thieves.
—Nick Ferraro, Twin Cities, 19 Sep. 2025
The suit also alleges that Fox News pressures its guests not to appear on Newsmax and has hired private investigators to target Newsmax executives in an effort to drag down the channel.
—Gene Maddaus, Variety, 5 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for private investigators
Noun
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The footage reviewed by detectives showed Sanchez grabbing Tole and throwing him up against a wall.—
Kyle Feldscher,
CNN Money,
7 Oct. 2025
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Some detectives spoke about how investigating a police shooting affected them personally.—
PJ Green,
Kansas City Star,
7 Oct. 2025
Noun
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Monson eventually turned himself in on the advice of his father after investigators showed up at his sister’s house, officials said.—
Paloma Chavez,
Sacbee.com,
7 Oct. 2025
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According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Ed later told investigators that his father had abused both him and his older sibling.—
Christopher Rudolph,
PEOPLE,
7 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Private investigators.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/private%20investigators. Accessed 10 Oct. 2025.
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