investigate

[ in-ves-ti-geyt ]
/ ɪnˈvɛs tɪˌgeɪt /

verb (used with object), in·ves·ti·gat·ed, in·ves·ti·gat·ing.

to examine, study, or inquire into systematically; search or examine into the particulars of; examine in detail.
to search out and examine the particulars of in an attempt to learn the facts about something hidden, unique, or complex, especially in an attempt to find a motive, cause, or culprit: The police are investigating the murder.

verb (used without object), in·ves·ti·gat·ed, in·ves·ti·gat·ing.

to make inquiry, examination, or investigation.

Origin of investigate

1500–10; < Latin investīgātus, past participle of investīgāre to follow a trail, search out. See in-2, vestige, -ate1

OTHER WORDS FROM investigate

Example sentences from the Web for investigator

British Dictionary definitions for investigator (1 of 2)

investigator
/ (ɪnˈvɛstɪˌɡeɪtə) /

noun

a person who investigates, such as a private detective

British Dictionary definitions for investigator (2 of 2)

investigate
/ (ɪnˈvɛstɪˌɡeɪt) /

verb

to inquire into (a situation or problem, esp a crime or death) thoroughly; examine systematically, esp in order to discover the truth

Derived forms of investigate

investigable, adjective investigative or investigatory, adjective

Word Origin for investigate

C16: from Latin investīgāre to search after, from in- ² + vestīgium track; see vestige