exploration
UK: ˌɛkspləˈreɪʃən | US: ˌɛkspləˈreɪʃən
n. the act of exploring or investigating an unfamiliar area or subject
n. a systematic examination or study, especially for scientific purposes
n. (historical) the travel to unknown regions for discovery
exploration = ex<out> + plor<search> + ation<noun suffix>
- ex (Latin origin, meaning "out")
- plor (from Latin plorare, meaning "to search" or "to cry out," later evolving to imply thorough investigation)
- ation (noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process)
Etymology Origin:
The word exploration traces back to Latin explorare, combining ex- ("out") and plorare (originally "to cry out," later shifting to "search diligently"). Early usage referred to scouting or searching for resources (e.g., hunting). By the 16th century, it became associated with geographical discovery, reflecting humanity's quest to map the unknown. The suffix -ation formalized it as a noun for the process of exploring.
The exploration of Mars has advanced significantly with modern robotics.
Her research involves the exploration of ancient trade routes.
Childhood is a time of endless exploration and curiosity.
The team began their underwater exploration at dawn.
Space exploration requires international collaboration.