investigate
[ in-ves-ti-geyt ]
/ ɪnˈvɛs tɪˌgeɪt /
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verb (used with object), in·ves·ti·gat·ed, in·ves·ti·gat·ing.
to examine, study, or inquire into systematically; search or examine into the particulars of; examine in detail.
to search out and examine the particulars of in an attempt to learn the facts about something hidden, unique, or complex, especially in an attempt to find a motive, cause, or culprit: The police are investigating the murder.
verb (used without object), in·ves·ti·gat·ed, in·ves·ti·gat·ing.
to make inquiry, examination, or investigation.
QUIZZES
QUIZ YOURSELF ON “THEIR,” “THERE,” AND “THEY’RE”
Are you aware how often people swap around “their,” “there,” and “they’re”? Prove you have more than a fair grasp over these commonly confused words.
Question 1 of 7
Which one of these commonly confused words can act as an adverb or a pronoun?
Origin of investigate
OTHER WORDS FROM investigate
Words nearby investigate
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
Example sentences from the Web for investigate
British Dictionary definitions for investigate
investigate
/ (ɪnˈvɛstɪˌɡeɪt) /
verb
to inquire into (a situation or problem, esp a crime or death) thoroughly; examine systematically, esp in order to discover the truth
Derived forms of investigate
investigable, adjectiveinvestigative or investigatory, adjectiveWord Origin for investigate
C16: from Latin investīgāre to search after, from in- ² + vestīgium track; see vestige
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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