Delve
/dɛlv/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo search or reach inside something in order to find something.
/dɛlv/
To reach inside and search deeply.
She delved into her purse, searching for her keys.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're a detective, and you have to go deep into a mystery to solve it. That's what delving is like. You go deep to find answers, whether it’s in a box or in a book! For example, a detective might delve into the records to find clues.
👶 For kids: To dig or look very carefully for something.
More Examples
The journalist delved into the corruption scandal.
We need to delve deeper into the reasons for the company's decline.
How It's Used
"The archaeologist delved into the ancient ruins."
"Researchers delve into the complexities of climate change."
To search or make an effort to find more information about something.
/dɛlv/
To spend time or make an effort to find information about a subject.
She delved into the history of her family.
💡 Simply: Imagine you are a detective or a researcher, and you want to find out all the facts. Delving means really digging deep to find all the information you can find. For example, a journalist might delve into old newspaper archives for clues to a cold case.
👶 For kids: To look very hard to find out about something.
More Examples
The students delved into the scientific theories presented.
He delved into the details of the agreement.
How It's Used
"Historians delve into the past."
"The reporter delved into the politician's financial records."
Idioms & expressions
delve into the past
To investigate or research historical events or origins.
"The historian delved into the past to understand the motivations of the rebels."
delve into the details
To examine something closely or with a lot of details.
"The accountant had to delve into the details to find the source of the error."
From Old English *delfan* (to dig, excavate), related to Dutch *delven* and German *graben*. Originally referred to physical digging, then broadened to include metaphorical exploration and investigation.
The word "delve" has a long history, initially referring to the physical act of digging. Over time, it evolved to also encompass intellectual and investigative pursuits, reflecting the human desire to explore and uncover deeper truths.
Memory tip
Think of a diver diving deep to find something valuable. A person delves deep into a topic to gain knowledge.
Word Origin
"to dig, excavate"