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Definition of examine

examine

/ɪɡˈzæmɪn/
ex · am · ine
Adjective:examinable
•
Past Simple:examined
•
Past Participle:examined
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Present Participle:examining
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examine Lexical Profile

examine Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To inspect someone or something thoroughly in order to determine their nature, condition, or quality.

Example

"The doctor will examine the patient to determine the cause of the persistent fever."

2

To test the knowledge, proficiency, or qualifications of someone by requiring them to answer questions or perform tasks.

Example

"The committee will examine all doctoral candidates on their research methodology next week."

3

To question a witness or party formally in a court of law.

Example

"The defense attorney asked permission to examine the witness regarding the timeline of events."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for examine

• Nearby Words

exam
examinable
examination
examine
examinee
examiner
examiningly

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French examiner, from Latin examinare ('to weigh, test, or consider'), derived from examen ('the tongue or needle of a balance').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Examine. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/examine
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