Pronunciation: [ɛspˈa͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "espy" is spelled e-s-p-y. It is pronounced /ɛˈspaɪ/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). This verb means "to catch sight of", "to observe", or "to detect". The spelling of "espy" is straightforward as it follows the standard English spelling rules where the "e" comes before the consonants "s" and "p". This word may not be commonly used, but it still plays an important role in English language and literature.
Espy is a verb that refers to the act of catching sight of or glimpsing something or someone, usually from a distance or unexpectedly. The term primarily connotes spotting or detecting something that is not immediately apparent or visible. It suggests the act of observing or perceiving something that may be concealed, hidden, or camouflaged.
When one espies something, they are usually alert, observant, or keenly aware of their surroundings. It involves a sudden awareness or recognition of the presence of something or someone that was previously unknown or unnoticed. Espying can be intentional, where one actively seeks or searches for something, or it may happen unintentionally, when something just happens to catch their attention.
The term "espy" is often associated with a sense of surprise, intrigue, or revelation as the observer becomes aware of the object or person. It conveys a sense of discovery or a sudden realization that something of interest or importance has been found. Espying can be used in various contexts, such as spotting a hidden treasure, detecting an unknown danger, or noticing a familiar face in a crowd.
Overall, "espy" encompasses the act of visually detecting or recognizing something or someone that was previously unobserved or unnoticed, typically giving the observer a sense of surprise, intrigue, or revelation.
To see a thing at a distance; to discover something meant to be concealed or not very visible.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "espy" dates back to Middle English and is derived from the Old French verb "espier", which means "to observe, watch, or spy". The Old French term, in turn, can be traced back to the Late Latin word "spiare", meaning "to spy" or "to watch over". Ultimately, the Latin term comes from the Proto-Indo-European root word "spek-", signifying "to watch" or "to observe". The verb "espy" retains its original sense of "to catch sight of or discover something by keen observation" in modern English.
