investigate

in-ves-ti-gate · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To carry out a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of an incident, allegation, or situation.

  2. 2.

    To carry out research or study into a subject, typically to discover facts or information.

  3. 3.

    To make inquiries about someone or something, especially regarding their background or activities.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    investigate a case — to examine the details of a legal matter
  • •
    investigate thoroughly — to examine something with great care and detail

Related words

Antonyms: ignore, neglect, overlook
See also: investigated, investigating, investigation, investigator
Synonyms: examine, explore, inquire, probe, research

Etymology

From Latin investigare ("to trace out, search after"), from in- ("in, into") + vestigare ("to track, trace"), from vestigium ("footprint, track").