exploration

noun

ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən 

-ˌsplȯ-

: the act or an instance of exploring

explorational

ˌek-splə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nəl 

-ˌsplȯ-

adjective

Synonyms of exploration

• investigation
• inquiry
• examination
• study
• probing
• research
• probe

Examples of exploration in a Sentence

a topic for scholarly exploration

the early exploration of the West

early explorations of the West

Recent Examples on the Web

Their moons have become prime targets for exploration, especially as missions like Europa Clipper and Dragonfly prepare to investigate these distant worlds up close. —Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 1 Mar. 2026

The group’s unique exploration of dance – pioneering different ways to translate internal thoughts, feelings and ideas into physical motion – started as a therapeutic way to regain bodily autonomy. —Mercury News, 28 Feb. 2026

Other days called for gentle exploration. —Lisa A. Beach, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026

Her lyrical explorations of navigating a deeply feeling heart earned her a reputation as an indie bard of melancholy and loneliness, and fans, in turn, forged an intense parasocial relationship with her. —Hanif Abdurraqib, New Yorker, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1537, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing exploration

• re-exploration
• self-exploration

Rhymes for exploration

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

exploration

noun

ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən 

: the act or an instance of exploring