exploratory

[ ik-splawr-uh-tawr-ee ]

adjective

1. pertaining to or concerned with exploration:

   an exploratory operation.

2. inclined to make explorations.

Other Words From

• ex·plor·a·tive·ly adverb
• non·ex·plor·a·tive adjective
• non·ex·plor·a·to·ry adjective
• un·ex·plor·a·tive adjective
• un·ex·plor·a·to·ry 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

An exploratory study published this year found associations between prenatal exposure to fluoride and an increased risk of neurobehavioral problems at age 3 in a cohort of 229 Los Angeles-area children.

From Los Angeles Times

It is the second Lincolnshire fossil fuel development to be quashed in recent months, with the decision to approve exploratory drilling and extraction at Biscathorpe overturned in July following a legal challenge.

From BBC

After Howard died, Steiner received an exploratory phone call from Dodger official Steve Brener, wondering if he would be interested in making a move.

From Los Angeles Times

"I would like to clarify that the policy in this area remains at a very exploratory stage, and we are still working through what, if any, potential support mechanism may look like", she said.

From BBC

They not only come bundled with an exploratory attitude that has characterized youth in every historical period, but they grew up in a world in which racial, religious and gender integration in all aspects of life has been the unquestioned norm.

From Salon

Related Words

• curious
• seeking