What does surveille mean?
Surveille is a French verb that means to watch or observe someone or something, often in a secretive or suspicious manner. It is commonly used in formal or informal contexts, but it can also be used in a more neutral or objective tone. In law enforcement, business, or social contexts, surveille is used to describe the act of monitoring or keeping under surveillance. The word can also be used to describe the act of watching or observing someone or something in a more general sense. Surveille is a useful word for describing situations where someone or something is being monitored or observed, and it can be used in a variety of contexts to convey a sense of secrecy, suspicion, or objectivity. The word has a rich history and is often used in formal or informal contexts, but it can also be used in a more neutral or objective tone.
verbTo watch or observe someone or something, often in a secretive or suspicious manner.
- To watch or observe someone or something, often in a secretive or suspicious manner.
"The detective surveilled the suspect without being seen."
"The detective surveilled the suspect without being seen."
"The company surveilled its employees' online activity."
The plural form surveilles is used when referring to multiple people or things being surveilled.
"The detectives surveilled several suspects without being seen."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of surveille
The word surveille comes from the French verb surveiller, which means to watch or observe. The verb surveiller is derived from the Old French word surveir, which means to watch or keep watch. The word surveille has a long history and has been used in various contexts, including law enforcement, business, and social contexts.
How surveille is actually used
Surveille is often used in formal or informal contexts, but it can also be used in a more neutral or objective tone. It is commonly used in law enforcement, business, or social contexts.