Trace

Definition

"Trace" refers to a very small amount of something or to the act of finding or discovering something by investigating evidence. It can also mean to outline or delineate a form or shape.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /treɪs/
• Respelling: TRAYS (with "TRAYS" rhyming with "days" and "maze")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /treɪs/
• Respelling: TRAYS (similar to American English, with "TRAYS" rhyming with "days" and "maze")

In both dialects, "trace" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, as in "days" or "maze," followed by an "s" sound. The pronunciation of "trace" is essentially the same in both American and British English.

‍Etymology

The word "trace" originates from the Old French "tracer," meaning "to make a mark or diagram," which in turn comes from the Latin "tractus," meaning "drawing, dragging." This Latin root is also the source of the word "tract," implying a pulling or drawing action.

Derivatives

1. Traceable (adjective)
2. Tracer (noun)
3. Traceability (noun)
4. Tracing (noun)
5. Tracelessly (adverb)

Synonyms

1. Hint
2. Vestige
3. Track

Antonyms

1. Abundance
2. Erase
3. Ignore

Usage

• As a noun: "There was only a trace of milk left in the carton."
• As a verb: "The police were able to trace the call to a location downtown."

Related Terms

• Trace element: A chemical element present in minute quantities_.
• Trace fossil: A fossilized mark that is indicative of the presence or behavior of ancient organisms.
• Tracing paper: A transparent paper used for tracing designs.

Detailed Definition

As a Noun:

• A very small amount or indication of something: "They found traces of gold in the rock."
• A mark, object, or other indication of the existence or passing of something: "The archaeologists discovered traces of an ancient civilization."
• Evidence or clues used to follow, discover, or ascertain the course of something: "The detective examined the room for traces of evidence."

As a Verb:

• To find or discover something by investigating evidence or clues: "Investigators were able to trace the origins of the painting."
• To draw, outline, or delineate the form or outline of something: "She traced the outline of the leaf onto her sketch pad."
• To copy a drawing, map, or design on a transparent or semi-transparent surface: "The artist traced the design before transferring it onto canvas."
• To follow the course or track of something: "The hikers traced the path through the woods."
• To make one's way along a route or path: "They traced their way back to the camp before sunset."