explore

[ ik-splawr, -splohr ]

verb (used with object)

, ex·plored, ex·plor·ing.

1. to traverse or range over (a region, area, etc.) for the purpose of discovery:

   to explore the island.

2. to look into closely; scrutinize; examine:

   Let us explore the possibilities for improvement.

   Synonyms: survey, investigate, research, study, probe

3. Surgery. to investigate into, especially mechanically, as with a probe.
4. Obsolete. to search for; search out.

verb (used without object)

, ex·plored, ex·plor·ing.

1. to engage in exploration.

explore

/ ɪkˈsplɔː /

verb

1. tr to examine or investigate, esp systematically
2. to travel to or into (unfamiliar or unknown regions), esp for organized scientific purposes
3. tr med to examine (an organ or part) for diagnostic purposes
4. obsolete.
   tr to search for or out

Derived Forms

• exˈplorer, noun

Other Words From

• ex·plora·ble adjective
• ex·plora·bili·ty noun
• ex·ploring·ly adverb
• reex·plore verb reexplored reexploring
• unex·plora·ble adjective
• unex·plored adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of explore¹

First recorded in 1575–85; from Latin explōrāre “to search out, examine,” equivalent to ex- ex- ¹( def ) + plōrāre “to cry out,” probably originally with reference to hunting cries

Word History and Origins

Origin of explore¹

C16: from Latin explōrāre, from ex- ¹+ plōrāre to cry aloud; probably from the shouts of hunters sighting prey

Example Sentences

As a newcomer to Southern California, Hoover has made a point of meeting with City Council members in their districts as a way of hearing their thoughts and exploring his new home.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Gitzel says around 100 other companies are now actively exploring Saskatchewan for deposits.

From BBC

We’re excited to explore new opportunities outside these four walls while continuing to build our classic dishes and bring some exciting new ones to our loyal clientele base.

From Salon

I hit a point with my jackets where I had kind of peaked, and I wasn’t as interested in exploring them.

From Los Angeles Times

He said he was able to step away from his previous lifestyle and explored emotional trauma retreats and therapy.

From BBC

Related Words

• analyze
• delve into
• examine
• probe
• research
• scrutinize
• search
• seek
• test
• try