# investigator

/ˌɪnˈvɛstəˌɡeɪtɝ/ (US) · /ɪnvˈɛstɪɡˌeɪtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/investigator
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a person whose job is to find out the truth about something, like a crime or a scientific problem. They look for clues and ask questions to solve a mystery.

For teachers: a person who carries out a formal inquiry or systematic examination to uncover facts or determine the cause of an event. Often used in legal, scientific, or journalistic contexts.

## Examples

- The lead investigator found a new clue at the scene.
- The insurance company sent an investigator to check the damage before paying for the repairs.
- Following the sudden collapse of the bridge, a federal investigator was appointed to determine whether the failure was due to poor maintenance or a structural design flaw.

## Usage notes

- Commonly modified by adjectives like 'lead', 'private', or 'principal' to specify the person's rank or field.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.