découvrir

Senses

1. 1.

   to discover

   to find or learn about something for the first time

2. 2.

   to uncover

   to remove a covering or reveal what is hidden

3. 3.

   to expose

   to leave uncovered or bare

4. 4.

   to find out

   to become aware of a fact or truth

Examples

• "J'ai découvert un excellent restaurant près de chez moi."

  I discovered an excellent restaurant near my home.

• "Elle a découvert la vérité sur son passé."

  She found out the truth about her past.

• "Le soleil découvrait lentement les montagnes au lever du jour."

  The sun was slowly unveiling the mountains at daybreak.

Usage

A common and versatile verb, usable in both literal and figurative contexts. Typically takes a direct object. Often used in passé composé (j'ai découvert) in everyday speech. Note the reflexive form se découvrir (to undress, to uncover oneself).