dis·cov·er 
/dɪˈskʌvɚ/ verb
dis·cov·ers; dis·cov·ered; dis·cov·er·ing /dɪˈskʌvɚ/ verb [+ obj] 1 : to see, find, or become aware of (something) for the first time
▪ Christopher Columbus discovered the New World in 1492. ▪ Several new species of plants have recently been discovered. ▪ Scientists claim to have discovered [=found] a new way of controlling high blood pressure. ▪ It took her several weeks to discover the solution. ▪ His life was never the same after he discovered sailing. [=after he first went sailing; after he found how much he enjoyed sailing] 2 : to show the presence of (something hidden or difficult to see) : to make (something) known
▪ The autopsy discovered [=revealed, uncovered] traces of poison in the victim's blood. ▪ The tests have discovered problems in the current design. 3 : to learn or find out (something surprising or unexpected)
▪ I was surprised to discover [=realize] that I had lost my keys. ▪ She soon discovered what had been going on. 4 : to find out about and help (a talented new performer, writer, etc.)
▪ During her career she was responsible for discovering many now famous musicians.
▪ Christopher Columbus discovered the New World in 1492. ▪ Several new species of plants have recently been discovered. ▪ Scientists claim to have discovered [=found] a new way of controlling high blood pressure. ▪ It took her several weeks to discover the solution. ▪ His life was never the same after he discovered sailing. [=after he first went sailing; after he found how much he enjoyed sailing]
▪ The autopsy discovered [=revealed, uncovered] traces of poison in the victim's blood. ▪ The tests have discovered problems in the current design.
▪ I was surprised to discover [=realize] that I had lost my keys. ▪ She soon discovered what had been going on.
▪ During her career she was responsible for discovering many now famous musicians.
— dis·cov·er·er noun, plural dis·cov·er·ers [count]
▪ The species is named for its discoverer.
▪ The species is named for its discoverer.
