1 [+ obj] a : to look at (something) in a careful way to learn more about it : to study or analyze (something)
▪ Researchers are exploring how language is acquired by children.
b : to talk or think about (something) in a thoughtful and detailed way
▪ The book explores a number of controversial issues. ▪ You need to explore your feelings on this subject more carefully. ▪ We explored various options/alternatives/possibilities.
c : to learn about (something) by trying it
▪ an opportunity to explore different activities ▪ The children were encouraged to explore mathematics. 2 [+ obj] : to travel over or through (a place) in order to learn more about it or to find something
▪ I decided to go out and explore the town. ▪ They were sent to explore unknown regions of Africa. 3 [no obj] : to make a careful search for something by traveling to different places
▪ companies exploring for oil 4 [+ obj] : to touch (something) to learn more about it
▪ The doctor explored the wound.