espy

[ih-spahy]

espy Definition

• 1. to catch sight of, glimpse
• 2. to discover or detect something previously concealed or hidden

Using espy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "espy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I espy a ship on the horizon.

• Example

  He espied a rare bird in the tree.

• Example

  The detective espied a clue in the suspect's room.

• Example

  She espied her lost ring under the couch.

espy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for espy

• spot
• detect
• discern
• notice
• observe

Antonyms for espy

• miss
• overlook
• ignore

Phrases with espy

• espy out

  to discover or detect something through careful observation or investigation

  Example

  The journalist was determined to espy out the truth behind the scandal.

• espy upon

  to secretly observe or spy on someone or something

  Example

  The spy was sent to espy upon the enemy's military movements.

• espy hole

  a small opening or peephole used for spying or observing without being seen

  Example

  The detective looked through the espy hole in the door to see who was inside.

Origins of espy

from Old French 'espier', meaning 'to spy'

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Summary: espy in Brief

'Espy' [ih-spahy] means to catch sight of or discover something previously hidden. It is often used in contexts of observation and detection, as in 'The detective espied a clue in the suspect's room.' 'Espy' can also be used in phrases like 'espy out,' meaning to discover through careful observation, and 'espy upon,' meaning to secretly observe. Synonyms include 'spot' and 'detect.'