Gumshoe — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun verb /ˈgəm-ˌshü/ gum·shoe

Meaning & Definition of Gumshoe

Gumshoe (noun)

  1. detective

Gumshoe (verb)

  1. to engage in detective work

Gumshoe (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

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

    "the couple paid a gumshoe to look for their missing son"

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Gumshoe

The most common words with a similar meaning to Gumshoe:

Slang: shamus

Word Forms of Gumshoe

Inflections: gumshoed, gumshoeing

Origin & Etymology of Gumshoe

First known use: 1913

Frequently Asked Questions about Gumshoe

What does "Gumshoe" mean?

"Gumshoe" means detective. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: detective.

What is another word for "Gumshoe"?

Other words for "Gumshoe" include detective, dick, hawkshaw, investigator, operative, private detective, private eye and private investigator. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Gumshoe" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Gumshoe"?

There are 21 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Gumshoe". Common alternatives include detective, dick, hawkshaw, investigator, operative, private detective, private eye, private investigator, shamus and sherlock.

How do you use "Gumshoe" in a sentence?

Examples of "Gumshoe" in a sentence: "the couple paid a gumshoe to look for their missing son".

Is "Gumshoe" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Gumshoe" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.

How do you pronounce "Gumshoe"?

"Gumshoe" is pronounced /ˈgəm-ˌshü/ and divided into syllables as gum·shoe.

What is the origin of the word "Gumshoe"?

First known use: 1913.

What is another word for "Gumshoe" meaning "a person not on the police force who investigates criminal or illicit activity or searches for missing persons"?

When "Gumshoe" (noun) means a person not on the police force who investigates criminal or illicit activity or searches for missing persons, synonyms include detective, dick, hawkshaw, investigator, operative and private detective.