trace
trace Lexical Profile
trace Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A mark, object, or other indication of the existence or passing of something.
"Archaeologists uncovered faint traces of an ancient settlement beneath the desert sand."
A barely discernible quantity or quality of something, such as an emotion, substance, or accent.
"She spoke fluent English with only a slight trace of her native French accent."
Each of the two side straps, chains, or ropes by which a horse or other draft animal is attached to a vehicle that it is pulling.
"The coachman checked the leather traces to ensure the horses were securely hitched to the carriage."
In linear algebra, the sum of the elements on the main diagonal of a square matrix.
"To verify the eigenvalue calculation, the student first computed the trace of the transformation matrix."
• verb
To find or discover someone or something by diligent investigation.
"Public health officials worked quickly to trace the source of the foodborne illness."
To follow or mark the course, history, or development of something.
"The historian's new book traces the evolution of maritime trade across the Mediterranean."
To copy a drawing, map, or design by drawing over its lines on a superimposed piece of transparent paper.
"The young artist used parchment paper to trace the intricate botanical illustrations."
To draw or form a line or pattern by moving a finger or an object lightly over a surface.
"She absentmindedly traced the rim of her coffee cup while listening to the lecture."
• Rhymes for trace
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in Middle English from Old French 'tracier' (to make one's way or follow), which derives from Vulgar Latin '*tractiare', ultimately from Latin 'trahere' (to draw or pull). The sense of a harness strap comes separately from Old French 'traits', the plural of 'trait' (a pull or stroke).