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

The researchers are also delving into the genetic make-up for cardamom to find genetic markers for desirable traits.

Read more on BBC

The reports will not delve into the cause of the fires.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“Wealth-manager advice delves deeply into estate taxes, income taxes, generational planning/trusts, and charitable planning in addition to traditional investment planning,” says the Cooke Financial Group.

Read more on MarketWatch

In all, Fishman says none of these concerns are game changers and Netflix still has a high chance for continued growth as it delves further into live sports and builds out its advertising business.

Read more on MarketWatch

They didn’t delve into the details of city-run grocery stores or a rent freeze—two Mamdani proposals that have gobsmacked business leaders.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• burrow 
• inquire