Pronunciation: /treɪs/

Definitions of trace

noun a mark, object, or other indication of the existence or passing of something

Example Sentences

A1 I found a trace of chocolate on my shirt.

A2 The detective followed the trace of footprints to solve the case.

B1 There was a trace of sadness in her voice as she spoke about her lost dog.

B2 The archaeologist discovered a trace of ancient pottery at the excavation site.

C1 The scientist used a microscope to analyze the trace elements in the sample.

C2 The artist's work left a lasting trace on the art world for generations to come.

verb to make a mark or marks with or as if with a pointed instrument

Example Sentences

A1 I can trace my name in the sand.

A2 She traced the outline of the map with her finger.

B1 The detective traced the suspect's movements on the night of the crime.

B2 Scientists are trying to trace the origins of the virus.

C1 The artist traced the intricate details of the painting to create a replica.

C2 It is difficult to trace the exact path of the ancient trade route.

Examples of trace in a Sentence

formal The detective was able to trace the suspect's movements through the city using CCTV footage.

informal I can't trace my keys anywhere, have you seen them?

slang I tried to trace the call, but the signal was too weak.

figurative The artist's brush left a delicate trace of color on the canvas.

Grammatical Forms of trace

past tense

traced

plural

traces

comparative

more trace

superlative

most trace

present tense

trace

future tense

will trace

perfect tense

have traced

continuous tense

is tracing

singular

trace

positive degree

trace

infinitive

to trace

gerund

tracing

participle

tracing

Origin and Evolution of trace

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'trace' originated from the Old French word 'tracer' which came from the Latin word 'tractus' meaning 'track' or 'drawing'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to refer to a mark left by something passing, the word 'trace' evolved to also mean a small amount or indication of something, as well as to follow or track something.