Probe
prəʊb
Definitions
3 meaningsTo physically explore or examine something, especially with a tool or instrument; to investigate something thoroughly.
prəʊb
To physically examine or explore.
The dentist used a probe to check for cavities.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're a detective using a little stick (a probe!) to check out a hidden spot. You're poking around to find out what's there. Like checking a cake to see if it's done!
👶 For kids: To check something by touching or using a tool.
More Examples
Engineers are using a robotic probe to examine the interior of the volcano.
She probed the soil to see if it was damp.
How It's Used
"The doctor used a probe to examine the wound."
"Scientists are probing the ocean depths to understand the environment."
To ask questions carefully and thoroughly in order to find out the truth about something; to investigate or inquire.
prəʊb
To question or investigate, often cautiously.
The police are probing the crime scene for evidence.
💡 Simply: It's like asking a lot of questions to get to the bottom of something, like finding out why your dog ate your homework. You're trying to dig up the whole story!
👶 For kids: To ask questions to find out something secret.
More Examples
The journalist probed into the company's financial records.
She probed her friend about his change in behavior.
How It's Used
"The reporter probed the politician about the scandal."
"Investigators are probing the cause of the fire."
A tool or instrument used to examine or explore a physical space or internal area, especially in medicine or science. It can also be used to refer to a device sent to explore a remote location.
prəʊb
A tool or instrument used for examining or exploring.
The surgeon used a surgical probe to locate the tumor.
💡 Simply: It's like a special tool, like a long, skinny stick doctors use to look inside your body, or a spaceship sent to explore other planets!
👶 For kids: A tool to check something or find out more.
More Examples
The space probe sent back stunning images of Jupiter.
The mechanic used a diagnostic probe to find the engine problem.
How It's Used
"The doctor used a sterile probe to examine the patient's ear."
"The space probe sent back data about the planet's atmosphere."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
probe the depths
To investigate something very deeply or thoroughly, often abstractly.
"The philosopher spent years probing the depths of human consciousness."
From Latin *probare* meaning 'to test, prove'. Originally used to describe testing or examining something physically; later extended to investigating or examining more abstract concepts.
The word 'probe' has been used since the late 16th century. The meaning has evolved, initially relating to physical examination and later to investigation and inquiry.
Memory tip
Think of a detective using a probe to look for clues.
Word Origin
"to test, prove"