Experiment

Definition

An experiment is a scientific procedure or trial undertaken to test a hypothesis, discover new information, or demonstrate a known fact. It involves careful observation, measurement, and controlled manipulation of variables to gather data and draw conclusions.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspɛrɪmənt/
• Respelling: ik-SPER-uh-ment

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈspɛrɪmənt/
• Respelling: ik-SPER-uh-ment

Etymology

The word "experiment" originates from the Latin "experimentum," meaning "trial" or "test," derived from "experiri," which means "to try" or "to test." The term entered Middle English through Old French and has been closely associated with scientific inquiry and testing since the Renaissance.

Derivatives

• Experimental (adjective)
• Experimenter (noun)
• Experimentation (noun)
• Experiential (adjective)
• Experimentally (adverb)

Synonyms

• Trial
• Test
• Investigation

Antonyms

• Certainty
• Fact
• Proof

Usage

The term "experiment" is widely used in scientific, educational, and everyday contexts to denote a trial or test to observe outcomes. For instance, "The students conducted an experiment to study chemical reactions," or "He likes to experiment with different cooking methods."

Related Terms

• Hypothesis: A proposed explanation or assumption made based on limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.
• Observation: The act of carefully monitoring and recording data during an experiment or study.
• Control: A standard against which experimental outcomes are compared, ensuring accurate results.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A procedure or trial conducted to test a hypothesis: Often used in scientific contexts to explore phenomena or verify theories.
  • Example: "The scientist conducted an experiment to test the new vaccine's effectiveness."
• An activity or method of trying something new: Used more broadly to explore possibilities or innovations.
  • Example: "Her cooking is an experiment with different international cuisines."

Verb

• To perform a test or trial to discover something unknown: The act of conducting controlled tests or investigations.
  • Example: "He likes to experiment with different guitar tunings."
• To try out new ideas or methods: Used in creative or practical contexts to innovate or explore.
  • Example: "They are experimenting with a new marketing strategy."