Definition

Proper noun A fictional detective, the protagonist in a series of novels by the Belgian author Georges Simenon. He is characterized as a methodical, patient, and insightful French police commissioner who solves crimes through psychological understanding and meticulous observation rather than action or forensic science.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • In the novel, Commissaire Maigret patiently questions the suspect over a glass of beer.
  • Georges Simenon wrote dozens of stories featuring Commissaire Maigret.
  • The television adaptation captures the essence of Commissaire Maigret's investigative style perfectly.

Advanced Usage

• The character is often referred to simply as "Maigret", with "Commissaire" (French for "Commissioner") being his title.
  • Maigret is one of the most famous detectives in European literature.
• The term can be used attributively to describe a style of investigation or demeanor reminiscent of the character.
  • The real-life detective had a Maigret-like patience, preferring to wait and observe.

Variants and Related Words

• Maigret (n): The shortened, more common form of the character's name.
• Maigret-esque (adj): Resembling or characteristic of Commissaire Maigret or his methods.

Synonyms

• Fictional detective: A general term for a detective character from literature or film.
• Literary sleuth: Another term for a detective in novels.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• A Maigret of the mind: A phrase sometimes used to describe a person who solves problems through deep psychological insight and quiet contemplation, much like the character.

Noun

1. a fictional detective in novels by Georges Simenon