delve

American  

[delv] / dɛlv /

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.

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verb (used with object)

delved, delving

1. Archaic. to dig; excavate.

delve British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• delver noun
• undelved adjective

Etymology

Origin of delve

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

Example Sentences

Apple on Monday delved into the crowded market of streaming video, announcing an ambitious service that will feature its own original series and films, as well as content from its partners.

From Los Angeles Times

So he used AI to delve deep into the world of emerging treatments including mRNA vaccines, which train the body's immune system and were widely used during the Covid pandemic.

From Barron's

And other topics we delve into include America’s overmedicated seniors, the new path to the middle class and our guide to the summer’s big events.

From The Wall Street Journal

Wright delved into the subject of the war about nine minutes into his public remarks at the S&P Global’s CERAWeek energy conference in downtown Houston.

From The Wall Street Journal

Her stories frequently explore the travel experience, from occasional fliers to seasoned road warriors, and she has delved into the world of aviation culture with stories on planespotting, first class amenities, and Biscoff cookies.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• burrow
• inquire