discovery
n.-
1 finding something new (n.) A2 Elementarythe act of finding something that was not known before.
the act of finding or uncovering something previously unknown or hidden.
ExampleThe discovery of fire changed the way early humans lived.
ExampleThe discovery of the ancient ruins was entirely accidental, occurring during a routine survey for a new highway project.
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2 the thing found (n.) A2 Elementarya person or thing that has been found.
a person, place, or thing that has been discovered, often implying value or significance.
ExampleThe scientists shared their latest discovery with the world.
ExampleThe gallery owner considered the young painter a major discovery, predicting she would become a leading figure in modern art.
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3 legal evidence sharing (n.) C1 Advanced Technical Formal Lawthe process where lawyers share information and evidence before a trial starts.
the pre-trial phase in which parties to a lawsuit are required to disclose relevant evidence to one another.
ExampleThe lawyers spent months on discovery, looking through thousands of emails.
ExampleDuring the discovery phase, the defence requested all internal correspondence related to the safety testing of the vehicle.
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun in this context.
from discover + -ery, on the pattern of the pair recover, recovery. Displaced native Old English onfundennes.