traced

word · lemma: trace

/ˈtɹeɪst/
trayst
/tɹˈeɪst/
trayst

Definition

Past form of 'trace': to have found the origin, path, or cause of something, or to have copied a drawing by following its lines.

Usage & Nuances

Used for both investigating origins (like 'traced the phone call') and art ('traced the drawing'). Often appears in passive and past tense, especially in crime, technology, or creative contexts. 'Traced back' specifies finding an earlier stage or source.

Example Sentences

The detective traced the footprints in the mud.

basic

She traced the shape onto the paper.

basic

The call was traced to a nearby city.

basic

They finally traced the missing package and found it at the post office.

natural

All the email addresses were traced back to one company.

natural

I traced the pattern with a pencil before cutting the fabric.

natural