exploratory

Also ex·plor·a·tive

[ik-splawr-uh-tawr-ee]

adjective

1. pertaining to or concerned with exploration.

   an exploratory operation.

2. inclined to make explorations.

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of exploratory¹

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

Example Sentences

Brazil's state oil firm has received a licence to conduct exploratory oil drilling in the sea off the Amazon, despite environmental concerns about the project.

Read more on BBC

Wiener, 55, has already declared his intention to eventually run for the seat held by Pelosi and has raised $1 million through an exploratory committee.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But they cautioned that the online tool is for “exploratory purposes only” — and that a binding eligibility map will eventually be published by the Southern California Assn. of Governments.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Domestically, the Brazilian president has faced criticism over his support for exploratory drilling for oil near the mouth of the Amazon River.

Read more on BBC

And Rama has had exploratory surgery for a serious bowel condition.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• preparatory 
• prior