easy
Trace the shape with your finger.
What does Trace mean?
to follow, find, copy, or outline carefully.
Dictionary definition
To trace means to follow, find, copy, or outline something carefully; a trace can also be a small sign or amount left behind.
Example sentences
Trace in a sentence
medium
The detective tried to trace the footprints to the door.
hard
Scientists found a trace of salt in the water sample.
Writing practice
Ready to write your own? Study the examples, then practice trace in a sentence with Sentence Builder checklist feedback.
Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Trace
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does trace mean?
Trace can mean to follow clues, copy an outline, or find a small sign.
Practice 2
Which word is closest in meaning to trace?
Outline is close in meaning to trace.
Practice 3
Which word is an antonym of trace?
Erase contrasts with trace in this dictionary entry.
Practice complete
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Trace
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TRAYS
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TRAYS
Learn
WordTrace.
Partverb, noun.
MeaningTrace means to follow, find, copy, or outline carefully.
ExampleExample: Trace the shape with your finger.
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Synonyms
Words like Trace
Antonyms
Opposite words
eraseRemove marks instead of following or copying them.
ignoreNot follow signs or clues.
Synonym practice
Want to practice trace synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "Please trace the letter with your pencil," then compare close word choices. Practice trace synonyms.
Word family
Trace word family
Base word
trace
verb
trace
To follow, find, copy, or outline.
verb
traced
Followed or outlined in the past.
noun
tracing
The act of outlining or following.
Related words
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Student support
Understand Trace
Hint for students
to follow, find, copy, or outline carefully.
Common mix-up
Trace is not the same as erase. Trace means to follow, find, copy, or outline carefully.
Try it in class or at home
Read this model sentence: The detective tried to trace the footprints to the door. Clue words: detective, tried, footprints. Underline clue words that show why trace fits instead of erase. Now write one new sentence that shows trace without using the word trace. Ask: Does my sentence clearly show trace?
Teacher prompt
Ask students to explain this model sentence: "The detective tried to trace the footprints to the door." Why does trace fit better than erase?
Learning activities
Practice Trace and explore more word games
Cards labelled “Practice TRACE” keep this word in focus. Explore cards open games with other words.
Practice TRACE
Sentence Builder
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