trace (B1)

noun, verb

Pronunciation: treɪs

Definition

A very small sign or amount of something that shows that someone or something was present or existed, or that something happened.

Examples

• There was no trace of the missing hikers.

• The only trace of the ancient civilization is a few scattered ruins.

• She could detect a trace of perfume in the air.

How to Use trace

trace of (prepositional phrase)

A very small sign or amount of something. — "There was no trace of a struggle."

trace back to (prepositional phrase)

To find the origin or cause of something by following its history. — "The disease can be traced back to contaminated food."

trace something (verb)

To follow the course or development of something. — "We need to trace the source of the problem."

trace something (verb)

To draw or copy something by drawing lines on top of it. — "Please trace the diagram in your notebook."

Synonyms of trace

Words with a similar meaning to trace:

• hint
• clue
• sign
• evidence

Antonyms of trace

Words with the opposite meaning to trace:

• abundance
• plenty

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