Experiment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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experiment
[ษชkหsperษชmษnt ]
Definitions
scientific research
A scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| experiment |
Used when referring to a scientific procedure to discover or verify something.
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| trial |
Often used when assessing or testing something new, usually over a period of time, or in legal contexts.
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| test |
Commonly used to check knowledge, abilities, qualities, or the functionality of something.
|
| investigation |
Used when trying to find out detailed information about something or to solve a mystery, often used in police or journalistic contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The scientists conducted an experiment to test their theory.
- The experiment yielded unexpected results.
trying something new
To try something new or different to see what happens or to learn more about it.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| experiment |
Appropriate for scientific or methodical investigation to discover something new or to compare different outcomes under controlled conditions.
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| try out |
Often used in everyday scenarios to suggest using or doing something to see if it is effective or enjoyable, usually informally.
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| explore |
Used when investigating or discovering something new in a broad or detailed manner, often without a specific hypothesis.
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| test |
Used to assess the performance, quality, or reliability of something, usually in a specific and controlled way.
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Examples of usage
- She decided to experiment with a new recipe for dinner.
- He likes to experiment with different art techniques.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Experiments often follow the scientific method, which includes making a hypothesis, testing it, and analyzing results.
- In psychology, controlled experiments help researchers understand behaviors and mental processes by isolating variables.
- Famous experiments, like Pavlov's dogs, have shaped our understanding of learning and behavior.
History
- The scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th centuries saw a rise in experiments as a foundational part of scientific inquiry.
- Galileo's experiments in the late 1500s provided evidence against Aristotelian physics, changing scientific thought.
- The 19th century brought about the establishment of controlled experimentation in laboratories, paving the way for modern science.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Dead Poets Society' portray characters pushed to experiment with their lives, exploring new ideas and perspectives.
- Television shows often feature characters conducting experiments for comedic effect, highlighting the unpredictability of outcomes.
- Reality TV programs frequently present challenges that involve experiments in cooking, design, or social dynamics.
Philosophy
- In philosophy, conducting thought experiments helps explore concepts and ethical dilemmas without real-world implications.
- Notable thought experiments include Schrรถdinger's cat, which illustrates the complexities of quantum mechanics.
- Philosophers like Descartes used experiments of thought to question existence and reality.
Origin of 'experiment'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'experimentum', which means 'to try out' or 'test'.
- It first appeared in English in the 14th century, closely linked to the idea of trial and testing.
- Related words like 'experience' share the same root, emphasizing learning through trying things.
The word 'experiment' originated from the Latin word 'experimentum', which means a trial or test. The concept of experimentation has been integral to the progress of science and innovation throughout history. From the early scientific experiments of figures like Galileo and Newton to modern-day research labs, experiments have played a crucial role in expanding our understanding of the world.
See also: experimental, experimentally, experimenter.