Expedition

Definition

An expedition is an organized journey or voyage undertaken for a specific purpose, often involving exploration, research, or adventure in unfamiliar or remote locations. Expeditions may be conducted by groups, teams, or individuals and are typically planned with careful logistical preparation.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɛkspəˈdɪʃən/
• Respelling: ek-spuh-DISH-uhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɛkspəˈdɪʃən/
• Respelling: ek-spuh-DISH-uhn

Etymology

The word "expedition" originates from the Latin "expeditio," meaning "a setting forth" or "a military campaign," derived from "expedire," which means "to make ready" or "to free one’s feet." The term entered English in the late Middle Ages, maintaining its association with organized journeys or undertakings for specific goals.

Derivatives

• Expeditionary (adjective)
• Expeditioner (noun)
• Expedite (verb)
• Expediter (noun)
• Expeditious (adjective)

Synonyms

• Journey
• Quest
• Voyage

Antonyms

• Delay
• Inaction
• Hesitation

Usage

The noun "expedition" is frequently used in contexts of organized exploration, research, or adventure. For example, "The team embarked on an expedition to the Arctic," or "Scientific expeditions have contributed significantly to our understanding of uncharted territories." Expeditions are often associated with challenging or ambitious journeys.

Related Terms

• Exploration: The act of traveling through an area for discovery or research.
• Adventure: An exciting or unusual experience, often involving some degree of risk.
• Mission: A specific task or duty assigned to a person or group, often with a significant goal.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An organized journey or voyage with a specific purpose: Typically undertaken for exploration, research, or adventure, often in challenging or remote locations.
  • Example: "The explorers planned a year-long expedition to document wildlife in the Amazon rainforest."
• A military campaign or journey undertaken by armed forces: Historically, the term was used to describe organized military operations.
  • Example: "The ancient Romans launched several expeditions to expand their empire."