explore

[ik-splawr, -splohr]

verb (used with object)

explored, exploring 

1. to traverse or range over (a region, area, etc.) for the purpose of discovery.

   to explore the island.

2. to look into closely; scrutinize; examine.

   Let us explore the possibilities for improvement.

   Synonyms: survey, investigate, research, study, probe

3. Surgery.,  to investigate into, especially mechanically, as with a probe.

4. Obsolete.,  to search for; search out.

verb (used without object)

explored, exploring 

1. to engage in exploration.

explore

/ ɪkˈsplɔː /

verb

1. (tr) to examine or investigate, esp systematically

2. to travel to or into (unfamiliar or unknown regions), esp for organized scientific purposes

3. (tr) med to examine (an organ or part) for diagnostic purposes

4. obsolete,  (tr) to search for or out

Other Word Forms

• explorer noun
• explorable adjective
• explorability noun
• exploringly adverb
• reexplore verb
• unexplorable adjective
• unexplored adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of explore¹

First recorded in 1575–85; from Latin explōrāre “to search out, examine,” equivalent to ex- ex- ¹ ( def. ) + plōrāre “to cry out,” probably originally with reference to hunting cries

Word History and Origins

Origin of explore¹

C16: from Latin explōrāre, from _ex- ¹ + plōrāre to cry aloud; probably from the shouts of hunters sighting prey

Example Sentences

In that way, the next mission to explore an asteroid is better prepared.

Read more on Space Scoop

On Monday, Barrick announced it would explore an initial public offering of a subsidiary that would hold its premier North American gold assets.

Read more on Barron's

The team also examined isolated monocytes and used cell culture tests to explore the underlying biological mechanisms in greater detail.

Read more on Science Daily

These younger consumers outperform in their social-media influence and tend to explore a wider range of brands.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

On the contrary, it will encourage students to explore dissenting ideas, even if only as a “devil’s advocate.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• analyze 
• delve into www.thesaurus.com
• examine 
• probe 
• research 
• scrutinize 
• search 
• seek 
• test 
• try