The word "investigatory" is spelled with three syllables, "in-ves-ti-ga-to-ry" pronounced as /ɪnˈvɛstəɡəˌtɔri/. The accent is on the second syllable with the "tory" part rhyming with "story". The spelling of this word is derived from the base word "investigate", which means to conduct a systematic inquiry or examination. When the suffix "-ory" is added to the end of the base word, it forms an adjective indicating the nature of the investigation process. Thus, "investigatory" is often used to describe or refer to scientific projects or experiments.
Investigatory is an adjective that refers to something related to the act of investigating or carrying out an investigation. It is derived from the word "investigate," which means to thoroughly examine, study, or inquire into something in order to find out the truth, uncover facts, solve a problem, or clarify an issue.
When used in a context related to investigations or research, investigatory indicates that something is involved in or associated with an investigative process. It suggests that a particular action, procedure, methodology, or approach is being employed to scrutinize, analyze, or gather information about a subject matter. This term commonly relates to activities within fields such as law enforcement, scientific research, journalism, or academic studies, where a systematic exploration is undertaken to seek answers, gather evidence, or derive conclusions.
For example, an investigatory committee refers to a group of individuals who are appointed to thoroughly examine or investigate a specific issue, usually within a legislative or institutional context. Similarly, an investigatory report denotes a comprehensive document that contains findings and analysis resulting from an investigative process.
Overall, the word investigatory highlights the intent to explore, evaluate, or probe a matter in a systematic and methodical manner, typically aiming to uncover facts, provide insights, or contribute to the resolution of a problem or the improvement of knowledge.
Searching; inquiring into.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "investigatory" is derived from the noun "investigation", which traces its origins back to the Latin word "investigatio" or "investigare". In Latin, "investigare" means "to track", "to trace", or "to search out". It is composed of two parts: "in", which indicates "into", and "vestigium", meaning "a track or footprint". Over time, "investigation" came to refer to the act of searching for facts, uncovering information, or examining evidence in order to find answers or solve a problem. "Investigatory" serves as an adjective form of "investigation" and is used to describe something related to or characterized by an investigation.