Descry

usgb/dɪˈskraɪ/
verb

To see or catch sight of something from a distance.

From the top of the hill, she could descry the distant city skyline.
Visual representation of "descry" - To see or catch sight of something from a distance

Often appears as...

  • descry a figure
  • descry in the distance

Usage tips

Formal

Literary

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "descry"
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Distant Spotting

Used when something is recognized at a far distance, not up close.

Illustration for Distant Spotting
Standing on the cliff, I could just descry the ship on the horizon.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Visual Discovery

Implies putting effort into spotting something rather than seeing it casually.

Illustration for Visual Discovery
She squinted to descry the mountain peak through the fog.
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Literary Flair

Often found in literature to evoke a sense of observation and discovery.

Illustration for Literary Flair
The novel began as the hero descried a strange vessel approaching.
Visual representation of the word "Descry"

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