dragnet etymology

Etymology:

  • "Dragnet" originated from the nautical term "drag," referring to a net dragged along the seafloor to catch fish.

Meaning:

  • A systematic search, investigation, or campaign.
  • A type of police operation where officers search a specific area for suspects or evidence.
  • A television series that featured police detectives investigating crimes.

Origin:

The term "dragnet" as a metaphor for investigation can be traced back to the 16th century. It was first used in the context of fishing, referring to a large net that was dragged through the water to catch fish.

In the 19th century, the term was adopted by police forces to describe a systematic search or operation. It specifically referred to a type of police raid where officers would sweep through an area, searching for suspects or evidence.

The term gained wider recognition in the 20th century with the advent of the television series "Dragnet," which depicted the work of police detectives investigating crimes in Los Angeles. The show's popularity further cemented the association of "dragnet" with police operations.

dragnet relate terms

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