research
UK[rɪˈsɜːtʃ]US[ˈriːsɜːrtʃ]
n
The detailed study of something in order to discover new facts or information about it.
v
To study something carefully and try to discover new facts or information about it.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
search
re
again
search
to look for
Etymology
The word "research" entered English in the late 16th century from the Middle French verb recerchier, meaning "to seek out, search closely". This French term was itself a compound of the prefix re- (expressing intensive force, "again") and the verb cerchier ("to search"). The literal sense was "to search (for something) diligently and repeatedly". The modern, more abstract meaning—a systematic investigation to establish facts and reach new conclusions—developed in the 17th century, reflecting the emerging methodologies of scientific inquiry. The core logic remains intact: to look over something carefully and again, which is the essence of scholarly investigation.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + search (to look for)
- re: A Latin prefix meaning "again" or "back". In English, it functions as a derivational prefix indicating repetition or intensive action.
- search: From Middle English cerchen, from Old French cerchier, meaning "to go about, wander, search". It functions as the base verb meaning to look for or examine.
Examples
She is conducting groundbreaking research in the field of renewable energy.
The team will research the historical archives for more evidence.
His conclusions are based on years of meticulous research.