exploratory

adjective

ex·​plor·​ato·​ry ik-ˈsplȯr-ə-ˌtȯr-ē 

: of, relating to, or being exploration

exploratory surgery

exploratory drilling for oil

Examples of exploratory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While many countries remain in the exploratory or development phases, a select few have launched fully operational CBDCs, providing valuable insights into their implementation and impact. —Alexandra Andhov, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

Since this wasn’t the main goal of the original study, this analysis is exploratory, and any results need to be verified in future studies. —Simon Spichak, Health, 28 Nov. 2024

Learning how to plant without soil could be useful in other exploratory missions. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 24 Oct. 2024

Endeavor has retained The Raine Group to assist with the exploratory process. —Caitlin Huston, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing exploratory

• exploratory surgery

Kids Definition

exploratory

adjective

ex·​plor·​a·​to·​ry

ik-ˈsplōr-ə-ˌtōr-ē,

-ˌtȯr-

: of, relating to, or being exploration

exploratory drilling for oil

an exploratory trip

exploratory surgery

Medical Definition

exploratory

adjective

ex·​plor·​ato·​ry ik-ˈsplōr-ə-ˌtōr-ē, -ˈsplȯr-, -ˌtȯr- 

: of, relating to, or being exploration

exploratory surgery