Definition

Proper noun 1. The headquarters of the London Metropolitan Police, particularly its criminal investigation department (CID). This term originally referred to the physical location of the police headquarters on a street called Great Scotland Yard. It is now synonymous with the Metropolitan Police's detective and investigative branch. 2. The London Metropolitan Police Service's criminal investigation department itself. Used as a metonym to refer to the organization responsible for detective work and major crime investigation in Greater London.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The case was so complex it was referred to Scotland Yard for further investigation.
  • Scotland Yard has released a statement regarding the security operation.

Advanced Usage

• "Scotland Yard is investigating...": A common journalistic phrase indicating that the Metropolitan Police's CID is handling a case.
  • Scotland Yard is investigating the allegations of fraud.
• Used to signify expert detective authority, often in contrast to local police forces.
  • The local constabulary requested assistance from Scotland Yard.

Variants and Related Words

• The Yard: A common informal shortening of "Scotland Yard."
  • The evidence was sent directly to the Yard.
• New Scotland Yard: The official name for the current headquarters building, used to distinguish it from the original location.

Synonyms

• Metropolitan Police (CID): The Criminal Investigation Department of the Metropolitan Police.
• The Met: Informal term for the Metropolitan Police Service as a whole.

Noun

1. the detective department of the metropolitan police force of London