Laboratory

Definition

Laboratory is a noun that refers to a room, building, or facility equipped for scientific research, experiments, and testing. It is a controlled environment where experiments and measurements can be performed.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlæbrəˌtɔːri/
• Respelling: LAB-ruh-tor-ee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ləˈbɒrətri/ or /ˈlæbərətəri/
• Respelling: luh-BOR-uh-tree or LAB-uh-ruh-tree

Etymology

The word "laboratory" originates from the Medieval Latin "laboratorium," derived from "laborare," meaning "to work." The term entered English in the 17th century and has been associated with scientific research and experimentation since.

Derivatives

• Laboratorian (noun)
• Lab (noun, informal)
• Laboratorial (adjective)
• Laboratory-based (adjective)
• Relaboratory (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Research facility
• Workshop
• Test center

Antonyms

• Field
• Open space
• None

Usage

The term "laboratory" is widely used in academic, scientific, and industrial contexts. For example, "The experiment was conducted in the chemistry laboratory," or "The laboratory is equipped with the latest technology for genetic research."

Related Terms

• Experiment: A scientific procedure carried out in a laboratory.
• Analysis: The detailed examination of data obtained from a laboratory.
• Microscope: A tool commonly used in laboratories for magnifying small objects.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A facility equipped for scientific research: Refers to a controlled environment for conducting experiments and tests.
  • Example: "The physics laboratory was filled with advanced equipment."
• A place for manufacturing or technological development: Indicates a space for creating or testing new products or materials.
  • Example: "The pharmaceutical company has a cutting-edge laboratory for drug development."
• An informal term for any space used for experiments: Can also refer to small-scale workshops or test spaces.
  • Example: "His garage served as a makeshift laboratory for his robotics projects."