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Synonyms

research

American  
[ri-surch, ree-surch] / rɪˈsɜrtʃ, ˈri sɜrtʃ /

noun

  1. diligent and systematic inquiry or investigation into a subject in order to discover or revise facts, theories, applications, etc..

    recent research in medicine.

    Synonyms:
    study, scrutiny
  2. a particular instance or piece of research.


verb (used without object)

  1. to make researches; investigate carefully.

verb (used with object)

  1. to make an extensive investigation into.

    to research a matter thoroughly.

    Synonyms:
    scrutinize, examine, inquire, study
research British  
/ ˈriːsɜːtʃ, rɪˈsɜːtʃ /

noun

  1. systematic investigation to establish facts or principles or to collect information on a subject

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

verb

  1. to carry out investigations into (a subject, problem, etc)

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Related Words

See investigation.

Other Word Forms

  • proresearch adjective
  • researchable adjective
  • researcher noun
  • researchist noun
  • underresearch verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of research

First recorded in 1570–80; (verb) from Middle French recercher “to seek,” Old French, equivalent to re- re- + cercher search; (noun) from Middle French recerche

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

New research shows that the ranks of the affluent have grown markedly over the last 50 years or so, while the lower rungs of the middle class have shrunk.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

“I would give up any of our research funding to have the program continue with the tribe,” Jeffres said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

"A civilised country, a civilised government never targets institutions of knowledge, laboratories or research centres," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

New research suggests otherwise, according to a Keck Medicine of USC study published today in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

The scientists relied on active research and the best scientifically based assumptions they could make.

From "Camp Panda" by Catherine Thimmesh