delve
UK: dɛlv | US: dɛlv
vi. to search deeply or laboriously (often followed by "into")
vt. to dig or excavate (archaic)
The word "delve" originates from Old English delfan, meaning "to dig." Over time, its literal sense of physical digging evolved metaphorically into the modern meaning of "searching deeply," particularly in intellectual or investigative contexts. The shift reflects a common linguistic pattern where concrete actions (digging) inspire abstract concepts (exploring).
She delved into the archives to uncover historical documents.
The researcher delved deeply into the data to find patterns.
His book delves into the complexities of human psychology.
Archaeologists delved through layers of soil to find ancient artifacts.
The journalist delved into the scandal, revealing new evidence.