identify
/aɪˈdɛn.tɪ.faɪ/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: identifies · identifying · identified
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To establish the identity of someone or something.
Verb
Examples
It was hard to identify the shoplifter because the CCTV records didn't have a clear image.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To disclose the identity of someone.
Verb
Examples
The Associated Press will not identify the suspect of the crime because he is a juvenile.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
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Common questions
What does “identify” mean?
To establish the identity of someone or something.
Is “identify” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.
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