research

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.