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

Gold added that the exploratory modeling methodology also provides a roadmap for other work exploring drought vulnerability in institutionally complex river basins across the globe.

From Science Daily

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

Officials confirmed a very deep and active landslide plane — previously considered dormant — during exploratory drilling this summer, a discovery that has upended emergency efforts aimed at stabilizing the Portuguese Bend area.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• curious
• seeking