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police

po·lice

police

 
 
pronunciation:
p lis
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (noun, verb), Word Builder, Word Explorer, Word Parts
part of speech: noun
definition 1: a department of a town, city, or state government that has the authority of enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and maintaining order; police force.
She witnessed the accident and immediately called the police.
 
similar words:
law
definition 2: (used with a pl. verb) members of such a department or civil force, or all the members collectively.
The building was surrounded by police, who were heavily armed.What time did the police arrive at the scene?The police are currently investigating the matter.
definition 3: in some countries, a national security force. (See secret police).
The independence movement stalled after its leader was arrested by the secret police.
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part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: polices, policing, policed
definition 1: to control, secure, or cause to be lawful or orderly.
Security guards police the grounds of the White House.
definition 2: in the military, to clean up or make orderly.
The barracks are policed regularly.
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Word Builder: police +
  • police car:
    a car in which police officers drive while they are working.
  • policeman:
    a man who is a member of the police.
  • police officer:
    a person who is a member of the police.
  • police station:
    the office of the police in a certain area.
  • policewoman:
    a woman who is a member of the police.
Word Explorer
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  community, crime, law
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