investigate

verb

in-VES-ti-gayt/ɪnˈvɛs.tɪ.ɡeɪt/

Formsinvestigates, investigating, investigated

3 meanings of investigate

1
verbtransitive
To look carefully into something to learn the true facts about it.
Like a doctor running tests to find out what is making someone sick.
Scientists investigate the causes of disease so they can find better cures.
The students investigated how plants grow in different kinds of soil.
Similarexamine, study, research, explore, probe
2
verbtransitive
To look closely at something to find out a hidden truth or secret.
Like following clues to uncover something that someone tried to keep hidden.
Detectives investigate crimes to find out who was really responsible.
She investigated the strange noises coming from the empty house.
Similarprobe, scrutinize, examine, inspect, check
3
verbintransitive
To carry out a careful search for facts or the truth.
If you hear a strange sound at night, investigate before you panic.
When something goes wrong, good managers investigate before blaming anyone.
Similarinquire, probe, check

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Origin

Used since about 1510. It comes from the word 'investigation', which goes back to Latin 'investigo' meaning 'to search into'.