investigating
UK[ɪnˈvɛstɪɡeɪtɪŋ]US[ɪnˈvɛstɪɡeɪtɪŋ]
v
Carrying out a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of something.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
vestig
ating
in
vestig
ating
Etymology
The verb 'investigate' originates from the Latin investigare, meaning "to track, trace, or search into". This word itself is a compound of the prefix in- ("into") and the noun vestigium ("footprint, track"). The core logic is vividly metaphorical: to investigate is to follow the footprints or traces left behind, delving into the evidence to uncover the truth. The present participle form 'investigating' directly inherits this sense, describing the active process of following a trail of clues or information.
Analysis
Structure: in + vestig + ating
- in (Latin): A prefix meaning "in, into, on".
- vestig (Latin): From vestigium, meaning "footprint, track, trace".
- ating (English): The present participle suffix "-ing", indicating the action is ongoing.
Examples
The police are investigating the cause of the accident.
Scientists are investigating the effects of the new drug.
A committee has been formed for investigating the company's financial dealings.