laboratory
UK: ləˈbɒrət(ə)ri | US: ˈlæbrətɔːri
n. a room or building equipped for scientific experiments, research, or teaching
n. a place where chemicals or medicines are produced
The word "laboratory" traces back to the Latin laboratorium, meaning "a place of work." It evolved through Medieval Latin and Old French before entering English in the 16th century. The root labor reflects the core function of the space—dedicated to manual or intellectual work, particularly scientific experimentation. The suffix -atory systematically marks it as a location (like "observatory" or "lavatory").
She spent hours in the laboratory conducting experiments.
The new university laboratory is equipped with advanced technology.
Pharmaceutical laboratories must follow strict safety protocols.
The forensic laboratory analyzed the evidence from the crime scene.
Students gathered in the chemistry laboratory to observe the reaction.