proving ground

noun

1. any place, context, or area for testing something, as a piece of scientific equipment, a theory, etc.

proving ground

noun

1. a place or situation in which something new, such as equipment or a theory, can be tested

Word History and Origins

Origin of proving ground¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Colorado’s fourteeners have long been a proving ground for skiers, hikers, and ultrarunners.

From Outside Online

The upcoming public beta will be an interesting proving ground.

From Washington Post

Mary proposed the deserts of New Mexico as our proving ground.

From MIT Technology Review

Less than a year after the coronavirus crisis erupted, a massive mobilization to deliver a vaccine is underway, and Britain has emerged as a proving ground.

From Fortune

The first test, nicknamed “Able,” at the proving grounds was followed by approximately 100 more atmospheric nuclear trials at the site.

From Ozy

A few terms in the House of Representatives used to be the perfect proving ground for politicians en route to higher office.

From The Daily Beast

But Pennsylvania could be the ultimate proving ground this time around of what I call the “we gave the black guy a chance” theory.

From The Daily Beast

South Carolina is a proving ground for Republican candidates in presidential elections.

From The Daily Beast

In 2010, Colorado will be an important proving ground for the Tea Party.

From The Daily Beast

Here are the expanding works of a formidable fort defending the harbor entrance, and an artillery trial and proving ground.

From Project Gutenberg

"Post hospital, Aberdeen Proving Ground," he said sleepily, rubbing his eyes.

From Project Gutenberg

The pilot howitzer was delivered by the Watervliet Arsenal to the proving ground on August 24, 1918.

From Project Gutenberg

But when these mortars were sent to the proving ground the test-firing deformed the barrels and broke the metal bases.

From Project Gutenberg

The Government in the fall of 1917 bought a large tract of land near Aberdeen, Md., to be an artillery proving ground.

From Project Gutenberg