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

The emphasis for many is no longer on pushing physical limits, but on slowing down and reducing stress, connecting with nature and community, and making active exploration feel less rushed. — Dobrina Zhekova, Travel + Leisure, 5 Aug. 2026

However, exploration across approximately 17 square miles of the project remains restricted by a NASA land withdrawal. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 5 Aug. 2026

Levine cited earlier thinking from a recent National Academy of Sciences report on human exploration of Mars. — Leonard David, Space.com, 5 Aug. 2026

Evolutionary biologist Rowan Hooper’s exploration of the many manifestations of symbiotic collaboration. — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 5 Aug. 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