exploratory

American  

[ik-splawr-uh-tawr-ee] / ɪkˈsplɔr əˌtɔr i /

Also explorative

adjective

1. pertaining to or concerned with exploration.

   an exploratory operation.

2. inclined to make explorations.

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of exploratory

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

Example Sentences

Petrobas is conducting exploratory drilling to assess the feasibility of the field.

From Barron's

As Coleman notes, "Simultaneous space- and ground-based observations of microlensing events could be applied in the planning of future exploratory missions and could lead to a better understanding of how planets form across the Galaxy."

From Science Daily

To select a discipline, students rotate through programs during an exploratory first semester.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Injuries remain extremely rare,” according to the agency, which notes sharks do not typically prey on humans and most bites are believed to be exploratory or cases of mistaken identity.

From Los Angeles Times

The researchers conclude that southwestern Bald Eagles are highly exploratory, likely so they can locate short-lived food sources.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• preparatory
• prior