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

Salt Box and Shabu are among six local spots that took part in an exploratory program to evaluate the viability of using reusable to-go packaging to help cut down on single-use containers. —AFAR Media, 19 Dec. 2024

Volunteers will lead this exploratory hike through Lyonia Preserve. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 18 Dec. 2024

The exploratory cutting process involved numerous trials. —Kyle Roderick, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024

Last fall, the university formed a special exploratory committee to develop ideas for commemorating the return of its historic football rivalry with The University of Texas at Austin. —Brandi D. Addison, Austin American-Statesman, 18 Nov. 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