English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adj Uncommon

exploratory

ehk-SPLOR-uh-tuh-ree

Exploratory (adj) means Done in order to investigate or find something out. Example: “Doctors performed exploratory surgery to find the cause of the pain.”

adj
1
Done in order to investigate or find something out.
"Doctors performed exploratory surgery to find the cause of the pain."
"They held exploratory talks before signing the deal."

How to Use Exploratory

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMeant for investigating or testing something out, rather than for a final result.

Common pairings
exploratory surgery exploratory talks

Word Forms

exploratories plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “exploratory” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Doctors performed _____ surgery to find the cause of the pain.

Etymology

From explore + the adjective ending -atory.

explorative

Rhymes for exploratory

See all rhymes for exploratory →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “exploratory” mean?

The word “exploratory” means done in order to investigate or find something out. In plain terms, meant for investigating or testing something out, rather than for a final result.

How do you pronounce “exploratory”?

“Exploratory” is pronounced ehk-SPLOR-uh-tuh-ree (/ɛkˈsploɹ.əˌtoɹ.i/ in IPA).

How do you use “exploratory” in a sentence?

Here is “exploratory” used in a sentence: “Doctors performed exploratory surgery to find the cause of the pain.”

What part of speech is “exploratory”?

“Exploratory” is an adjective.

Is “exploratory” a common word?

“Exploratory” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial