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

Right now, this work may induce yawns, but as long-term exploration efforts of the moon and other bodies become both more serious and more varied, the complexity of mapping these worlds may increase. — Meghan Bartels, Space.com, 22 Sep. 2026

Also, space exploration companies can use the same rapid-tooling method to fabricate durable molds for rocket fairings and capsule structures. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 22 Sep. 2026

The cuts to Goddard and NASA’s overall science and exploration mission will have implications for decades to come, according to Casey Dreier, chief of space policy at the Planetary Society. — Eric Niiler, Scientific American, 22 Sep. 2026

Hadrian’s Wall is the place of continuing archeological discovery, even after all these years and explorations. — Matthew Wills, JSTOR Daily, 21 Sep. 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