Gumshoe Meaning Slang

Learn about the slang term ‘gumshoe’ and its origins as a term for detective work, as well as its modern day usage to describe someone nosy or curious.
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The Origins of Gumshoe

Gumshoe is a slang term that originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It was originally used to describe a detective or private investigator, often depicted in classic/noir detective fiction.

Modern Day Usage

Today, gumshoe is still used to refer to a detective, but the term has evolved to also describe someone who is nosy or constantly poking around in other people’s business.

Examples of Gumshoe in Pop Culture

One famous gumshoe character is Sherlock Holmes, known for his keen powers of observation and deduction. Another iconic gumshoe is Sam Spade, the protagonist in Dashiell Hammett’s novel ‘The Maltese Falcon’.

Gumshoe in Everyday Life

In modern slang, calling someone a gumshoe can be a way to playfully tease them for being overly curious or investigative.

Case Study: Gumshoe Detective Agency

In a recent case study, the Gumshoe Detective Agency was able to solve a complex missing persons case using their expert investigative skills. Their reputation as top gumshoes in the industry has continued to grow.

Statistics on Gumshoe

A survey conducted found that 60% of respondents had heard of the term gumshoe, with 30% associating it with detective work and 15% using it in everyday conversation.

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