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

Truist upgrades Matador Resources to buy from hold Truist says investors should buy the dip in the oil exploration stock following earnings. —Michael Bloom, CNBC, 12 May 2026

Enter Coward, which sees Dhont — who made his debut with the polarizing, award-winning trans drama Girl — pushing himself further in his explorations of sexuality and connection, while working on a far larger scale. —David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 12 May 2026

For broader exploration—say, a trip up to Milford or down to Stockton—a car is helpful. —Hannah Howard, Travel + Leisure, 12 May 2026

This is part exploration of possible alien life, part etiquette guide for meeting aliens, part pop culture analysis. —Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 12 May 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