exploration

noun

ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce exploration (audio)
-ˌsplȯ-
: the act or an instance of exploring
explorational adjective

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This skepticism has its own science-fiction tradition, in which space exploration follows the patterns of exploitation visible already on Earth. Robert Rubsam, The Atlantic, 21 June 2025 While the industry has explored stablecoins before, this exploration has previously been very peripheral: few mainstream players have touched stablecoins directly, engaging through arms-length partners, if at all. Daniel Webber, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025 But because each of these species was found in a highly specific area far from the others, the team suggests that more exploration will likely unearth other methane-eating sea spider species. Sara Hashemi, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 June 2025 Musk's space exploration company is working for Starship to be a fully reusable transportation system, meaning both the rocket and vehicle can return to earth for additional missions. Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for exploration

Word History

First Known Use

1537, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exploration was in 1537

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exploration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exploration. Accessed 25 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

exploration

noun
ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce exploration (audio)
: the act or an instance of exploring

More from Merriam-Webster on exploration

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