trace

trace¹

verb

1》 find by investigation.

    ↘find or describe the origin or development of.

2》 follow the course or position of with one's eye, mind, or finger.

3》 copy (a drawing, map, or design) by drawing over its lines on a superimposed piece of transparent paper.

    ↘draw (a pattern or line).

4》 give an outline of; describe.

noun

1》 a mark, object, or other indication of the existence or passing of something.

    ↘a physical change in the brain associated with a memory.

2》 a very small quantity.

    ↘a barely discernible indication: a trace of a smile.

3》 a line or pattern corresponding to something which is being recorded or measured.

    ↘the projection or intersection of a curve on or with a plane.

4》 a procedure to trace something, such as the source of a telephone call.

5》 Mathematics the sum of the elements in the principal diagonal of a square matrix.

6》 N. Amer. & W. Indian a path or track.

Derivatives

traceability noun

traceable adjective

traceless adjective

Origin

ME: from OFr. trace (n.), tracier (v.), based on L. tractus (see tract¹).

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trace²

noun each of the two side straps, chains, or ropes by which a horse is attached to a vehicle that it is pulling.

Phrases

kick over the traces Brit. become insubordinate or reckless.

Origin

ME: from OFr. trais, plural of trait (see trait).