Meaning & Definition of word "Investigate"

Investigate

/ɪnˈvɛstɪˌɡeɪt/

verb:

  • 1. To carry out a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of an issue, situation, or incident.
    • Example: The police will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
  • 2. To examine or consider in detail.
    • Example: Scientists are investigating the effects of climate change on polar bears.
  • 3. To conduct research or inquiry into.
    • Example: He decided to investigate the history of his family.
  • 4. To seek information or clarify something.
    • Example: We need to investigate how the data was leaked.

Etymology

From Latin 'investigatus', past participle of 'investigare', meaning 'to track or search in'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

investigate further:

To conduct more detailed inquiries into a matter.

investigate a case:

To look deeply into the details of a particular incident or crime.

investigate claims:

To thoroughly examine the validity of certain assertions.

Related Words

investigation:

The act of investigating or an inquiry.

investigator:

A person who investigates or conducts inquiries.

Slang Meanings of investigate

Meaning: Digging for info

Example Sentence: I'm just digging for info on that new project.

Meaning: Snooping around

Example Sentence: She was snooping around to find out the truth.