verb / noun

find

FYND/faɪnd/

To come upon or obtain something through experience or inquiry.

She finds her lost key beneath a sofa cushion.

A person searches beneath a sofa cushion and finds a lost key, delighted recognition and fingertips holding the discovered object, minimal sofa fragment.

Etymology

Old English findan covered both coming upon something and obtaining it through search or study. That inherited range explains why finding can be either an accidental discovery or the result of deliberate effort.

In context

Movie Recaps10:08

Greta opens the door to find a tray with a PB and jelly sandwich

Girl Accepts a Job As a Nanny For a Wealthy Couple Only to Find Out That The Child is a Doll

More examples

After comparing the records, we found the cause of the error.
I find this chair surprisingly comfortable.
Can you find enough volunteers for Saturday?
This used bike is a great find.

Forms

find · finds · found · finding

finder noun — A person who discovers or locates something.

Similar words

discover: Emphasizes learning about something previously unknown or unnoticed.
locate: Specifically means determining where someone or something is.
obtain: Emphasizes getting something rather than discovering its existence or location.