rɪˈsə:tʃ disp. n. & v. --n. 1 a
the systematic investigation into and study of materials, sources,
etc., in
order to
establish facts and
reach new conclusions. b (usu. in pl.) an
endeavour to
discover new or
collate old facts etc. by the
scientific study of a
subject or by a
course of
critical investigation. 2 (attrib.)
engaged in or
intended for research (research assistant). --v. 1 tr. do research into or for. 2 intr.
make researches. øresearch and
development (in
industry etc.)
work directed
towards the innovation,
introduction, and
improvement of products and processes. øøresearchable adj. researcher n. [obs. F recerche (as
RE-, SEARCH)]