Stake out

usgb
verb

To watch a place carefully, usually secretly, to observe someone's movements or activities.

The detective staked out the house hoping to catch the burglars.
Visual representation of "stake out" - To watch a place carefully, usually secretly, to observe someone's movements or activities.

Often appears as...

  • stake out a place
  • stake out a suspect
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "stake out"
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Surveillance Context

Used when discreetly monitoring someone suspected of something, often in law enforcement.

Illustration for Surveillance Context
The officers decided to stake out the warehouse after receiving the tip-off.
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Long Duration

Refers to an extended period of watching, not just a quick look.

Illustration for Long Duration
The journalist had to stake out the politician's house for days to get the story.
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Secretive Nature

The watching is done in secret, the observer stays hidden.

Illustration for Secretive Nature
The detective staked out from a nondescript van to avoid detection.
Visual representation of the word "Stake out"

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