Search Dictionary
Definition of exploratory

exploratory

/ɪkˈsplɔːr.əˌtɔːr.i/
ex · plor · a · to · ry
Adverb:exploratorily
JUMP TO:

exploratory Lexical Profile

exploratory Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to or involving exploration, investigation, or a preliminary examination of a subject or situation.

Example

"The diplomatic team held exploratory talks to see if a formal trade agreement was possible."

2

(Of a medical procedure or operation) performed in order to establish a diagnosis rather than to treat a known condition.

Example

"The surgeon recommended exploratory surgery to determine the exact cause of the patient's internal pain."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for exploratory
Antonyms
View all antonyms for exploratory

• Rhymes for exploratory

• Nearby Words

explorable
exploration
explorative
exploratory
explore
explorer
explosion

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 17th century, derived from the Latin verb 'explorare' (to investigate or search out), combined with the suffix '-atory'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Exploratory. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/exploratory
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.