investigation
UK: ɪnˌvɛstɪˈɡeɪʃən | US: ɪnˌvɛstəˈɡeɪʃən
n. the act or process of examining a crime, problem, statement, etc. carefully to discover the truth
n. a formal inquiry or systematic study
investigation = in<into> + vestig<track> + ation<noun suffix>
- in: Latin prefix meaning "into" or "upon."
- vestig: From Latin vestigium, meaning "footprint, track, or trace."
- ation: A noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process.
Etymology Origin:
The word "investigation" originates from Latin investigare ("to track, trace out"), combining in- (into) and vestigium (footprint). It metaphorically evolved to mean "following clues or evidence systematically," reflecting the logic of tracing steps to uncover truth. The term entered English via Old French investigacion in the 15th century, retaining its core idea of methodical inquiry.
The police launched an investigation into the robbery.
Her research involved a thorough investigation of historical documents.
The committee concluded its investigation with a detailed report.
Scientific investigation requires rigorous methodology.
Journalists conducted an investigation into corporate corruption.