exploratory

Also ex·plor·a·tive

[ik-splawr-uh-tawr-ee]

adjective

1. pertaining to or concerned with exploration.

   an exploratory operation.

2. inclined to make explorations.

Other Word Forms

• exploratively adverb
• nonexplorative adjective
• nonexploratory adjective
• unexplorative adjective
• unexploratory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of exploratory¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English word from Latin word explōrātōrius. See exploration, -ory ¹

Example Sentences

But they cautioned that the online tool is for “exploratory purposes only” — and that a binding eligibility map will eventually be published by the Southern California Assn. of Governments.

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Domestically, the Brazilian president has faced criticism over his support for exploratory drilling for oil near the mouth of the Amazon River.

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And Rama has had exploratory surgery for a serious bowel condition.

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An "exploratory urge" led to the discovery of one of the largest cave systems found in Britain in a decade, with cavers saying it was "a dream come true".

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Wolff has another factor to consider while he is in this exploratory phase with Verstappen and his management.

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Related Words

• preparatory 
• prior