explore

verb

ex·​plore ik-ˈsplȯr How to pronounce explore (audio)
explored; exploring

transitive verb

1
a
: to investigate, study, or analyze : look into
explore the relationship between social class and learning ability
sometimes used with indirect questions
to explore where ethical issues ariseR. T. Blackburn
b
: to become familiar with by testing or experimenting
explore new cuisines
2
: to travel over (new territory) for adventure or discovery
3
: to examine especially for diagnostic purposes
explore the wound

intransitive verb

: to make or conduct a systematic search
explore for oil

Examples of explore in a Sentence

Researchers are exploring how language is acquired by children. The book explores a number of controversial issues. You need to explore your feelings on this subject more carefully. an opportunity to explore different activities The children were encouraged to explore mathematics. I decided to go out and explore the town. They were sent to explore unknown regions of Africa.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The show will add a 21st century wrinkle by also exploring America’s current true-crime obsession. Rick Porter, The Hollywood Reporter, 25 Feb. 2025 Though the best vibrators don’t require a PhD for operation, there are tons of types to explore and understand. Amanda Chatel, Glamour, 25 Feb. 2025 There’s no question that exposing students to careers, mentors, internships, and hands-on learning opportunities early on will give them the time required to fully explore their passions and entrepreneurial endeavors that will bring fulfillment. Jean Eddy, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025 Scott grew up in the Bronx, watching National Geographic and the Discovery Channel, which ignited his passion for exploring the world. Mariette Williams, Essence, 25 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for explore

Word History

Etymology

Latin explorare, from ex- + plorare to cry out

First Known Use

1531, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of explore was in 1531

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Cite this Entry

“Explore.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/explore. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

explore

verb
ex·​plore ik-ˈsplō(ə)r How to pronounce explore (audio)
-ˈsplȯ(ə)r
explored; exploring
1
a
: to search through : look into
exploring new ideas
b
: to go into or travel over for purposes of discovery or adventure
explore a cave
explore the moon
c
: to examine carefully and in detail especially in order to make a diagnosis
explore a wound
2
: to make a careful search
explore for oil

Medical Definition

explore

transitive verb
explored; exploring
: to examine (as by surgery) especially for diagnostic purposes
the abdomen may need to be explored surgicallyDonald Caslow
exploration noun

More from Merriam-Webster on explore

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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