"Shamuses" is a slang term for private detectives widely used in the early 20th century. This term has many synonyms like dick, gumshoe, sleuth, private eye, investigator, and detective among others. These titles are frequently ascribed to individuals who work in the criminal sector, displaying unique skills in investigations and intelligence gathering. These professionals regularly operate outside of traditional law enforcement to collect important crime-scene evidence, interview witnesses, and track down suspects. While "shamuses" was a popular slang term for private detectives in the past, using a more appropriate and professional synonym like private investigator or detective is more commonly used today.