First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
examine
verb ex·am·ine \ig-ˈza-mən\
: to look at (something) closely and carefully in order to learn more about it, to find problems, etc.
: to test or look carefully at (something or someone) for signs of illness or injury
law : to question (someone) closely
ex·am·inedex·am·in·ing \-ˈzam-niŋ, -ˈza-mə-\
Full Definition of EXAMINE
transitive verb
1
2
a : to interrogate closely <examine a prisoner> b : to test by questioning in order to determine progress, fitness, or knowledge
intransitive verb
: to make or give an examination
— ex·am·in·able \-ˈza-mə-nə-bəl\ adjective
— ex·am·in·er \-ˈzam-nər, -ˈza-mə-\ noun
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See examine defined for kids
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Origin of EXAMINE
Middle English, from Anglo-French examiner, from Latin examinare, from examen
Related to EXAMINE
Synonym Discussion of EXAMINE
scrutinize, scan, inspect, examine mean to look at or over. scrutinize stresses close attention to minute detail <scrutinized the hospital bill>. scan implies a surveying from point to point often suggesting a cursory overall observation <scanned the wine list>. inspect implies scrutinizing for errors or defects <inspected my credentials>. examine suggests a scrutiny in order to determine the nature, condition, or quality of a thing <examined the specimens>.
Other Education Terms
Rhymes with EXAMINE
EXAMINE Defined for Kids
examine
verb ex·am·ine \ig-ˈza-mən\
ex·am·inedex·am·in·ing
Definition of EXAMINE for Kids
1
: to look at or check carefully <He had his eyes examined.>
2
: to question closely <The police examined a witness.>
Medical Dictionary
examine
verb ex·am·ine \ig-ˈzam-ən\
ex·am·inedex·am·in·ing \-(ə-)niŋ\
Medical Definition of EXAMINE
transitive verb
: to inspect or test for evidence of disease or abnormality <the doctor examined the young men and found them in perfect health>
intransitive verb
: to make or give an examination <the doctor will examine at the infirmary>
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