research

[ ri-surch, ree-surch ]

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

/ ˈriːsɜːtʃ; rɪˈsɜːtʃ /

noun

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

verb

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

Derived Forms

• reˈsearcher, noun
• reˈsearchable, adjective

Other Words From

• re·searcha·ble adjective
• re·searcher re·searchist noun
• prore·search adjective
• under·re·search verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of research¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of research¹

C16: from Old French recercher to seek, search again, from re- + cercher to search

Synonym Study

See investigation.

Example Sentences

Using advanced statistical techniques, the research team mapped each infant's growth pattern, uncovering three distinct growth trajectories.

From Science Daily

The research team employed a novel statistical approach that is uniquely suited for examining ancient DNA data.

From Science Daily

Despite the previous evidence that schooling requirement laws impact cognition in older adults, gaps in equitable research remain.

From Science Daily

Scientists should integrate imagination and interdisciplinary approaches into climate adaptation research.

From Science Daily

An international research team has now developed a method for designing large new proteins better than before and producing them with the desired properties in the laboratory.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• analysis
• exploration
• inquiry
• investigation
• probe