shamus

Definition

A private detective; originally, a policeman or police detective.

Etymology

Said to be from the Irish name Séamus, on account of many American police officers being of Irish descent.

Example Sentences

• "“That's what you're here for. Didn't your aunt tell you? She wants you to follow Wilbert Cream and Phyllis about everywhere and see that he doesn't get a chance of proposing.” “You mean that I'm to be a sort of private eye or shamus, tailing them up? I don't like it,” I said dubiously."