shamus

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The word "shamus" is a noun that refers to someone who works as a detective, often to gather information or solve mysteries. It is primarily used in American English and comes from the Irish surname "Seamus," which means James.

Explanation:

• Definition: A shamus is a private detective or investigator. They are often hired to look into cases, find missing persons, or gather information on someone.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "shamus" when talking about someone who investigates crimes or gathers information for others. It’s often used in a more informal or colloquial context.

Example:

• "The shamus was hired to investigate the strange disappearances in the town."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or film, "shamus" might be used to give a character a tough or gritty persona, often in detective stories or crime dramas.

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of "shamus," but related words include:
  • Detective (more formal)
  • Private investigator (another term for someone who conducts investigations)

Different Meaning:

• While "shamus" specifically refers to a detective, it may also carry a connotation of someone who is a bit rough around the edges or operates outside the traditional law enforcement methods.

Synonyms:

• Detective
• Investigator
• Sleuth
• P.I. (short for Private Investigator)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include "shamus," but you might hear phrases like:
  • "Play detective" - This means to try to find out information like a detective would, even if you are not one.

Summary:

So, when you hear the word "shamus," think of a private detective who is often involved in solving mysteries or gathering information.

Academic

Noun

1. someone who can be employed as a detective to collect information

Synonyms

• private detective
• PI
• private eye
• private investigator
• operative
• sherlock