delve

[delv]

verb (used without object)

delved, delving 

1. to carry on intensive and thorough research for data, information, or the like; investigate.

   to delve into the issue of prison reform.

   Synonyms: explore, examine, probe, inquire, research

2. Archaic.,  to dig, as with a spade.

verb (used with object)

delved, delving 

1. Archaic.,  to dig; excavate.

delve

/ dɛlv /

verb

1. to inquire or research deeply or intensively (for information, etc)

   he delved in the Bible for quotations

2. to search or rummage (in a drawer, the pockets, etc)

3. (esp of an animal) to dig or burrow deeply (into the ground, etc)

4. archaic,  (also tr) to dig or turn up (earth, a garden, etc), as with a spade

Other Word Forms

• delver noun
• undelved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of delve¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English delven, Old English delfan; cognate with Dutch delven, Old High German telban

Word History and Origins

Origin of delve¹

Old English delfan; related to Old High German telban to dig, Russian dolbit to hollow out with a chisel

Example Sentences

Corinne, who has a therapist, says the discussions with her therapist delve more into childhood than the questions she raises with ChatGPT over dating or relationship queries.

From BBC

In the more than two decades in between, Cocker positioned himself as a bit of a renaissance man, while pulling away from the Pulp lifestyle and delving into a solo career.

From Los Angeles Times

But if France delve beyond those headline figures, into the fine detail, the numbers offer more comfort.

From BBC

Near the end of the autobiography, Borg also delves into his battle with advanced prostate cancer, which required an operation in 2014.

From Los Angeles Times

Last year’s radical “The Night” delved into an angelic strand of beatless ambient.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• burrow 
• inquire