investigate

 
Pronunciation: /ɪnˈvɛstɪgeɪt/

verb

[with object]
  • carry out a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of (an incident, allegation, etc.) so as to establish the truth: police are investigating a claim that the man was beaten unconscious by a gang
  • carry out research or study into (a subject or problem, typically one in a scientific or academic field): [with clause]: future studies will investigate whether long-term use of the drugs could prevent cancer
  • make inquiries as to the character, activities, or background of (someone): everyone with a possible interest in your brother’s death must be thoroughly investigated
  • [no object] make a check to find out something: when you didn’t turn up I thought I’d better come back to investigate

Derivatives

investigatory

Pronunciation: /-gət(ə)ri/
adjective

Origin:

early 16th century: from Latin investigat- 'traced out', from the verb investigare, from in- 'into' + vestigare 'track, trace out'