exploration

noun

ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce exploration (audio)
-ˌsplȯ-
Synonyms of exploration
: the act or an instance of exploring
explorational
ˌek-splə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce exploration (audio)
-ˌsplȯ-
adjective

Synonyms of exploration

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Examples of exploration in a Sentence

a topic for scholarly exploration the early exploration of the West early explorations of the West
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Parton’s genre-spanning exploration continued through her most recent studio album, Rockstar, in 2023. — Xander Zellner, Billboard, 26 Aug. 2026 Related Stories Also revealed in the trailer are Chocobo mounts, a grappling hook and the new Summon Typhon and open-world exploration via parachute. — Tanya Fedak, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026 Hiking trails lead to lookouts, while paddleboards allow for spontaneous exploration of the private island's coastline. — Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Aug. 2026 But Jähn stayed involved in Germany's space exploration efforts, serving as a freelance consultant for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center near Moscow, as well as for the European Astronaut Center in Cologne. — Tariq Malik, Space.com, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exploration

Word History

First Known Use

1537, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exploration was in 1537

Phrases Containing exploration

Rhymes for exploration

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Browse Nearby Words

exploitive
exploration
explorational
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Cite this Entry

“Exploration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exploration. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

exploration

noun
ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce exploration (audio)
: the act or an instance of exploring
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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