The Etymology and Meaning of ‘Research’

It’s an interesting question. The prefix re- in 'research' actually doesn’t only mean to do something repeatedly. It also means to do something thoroughly or to go back towards or to the starting point as in recede, reduce, resume. And the meaning isn’t always entirely clear: the OED says ‘Even in Latin the precise sense of re- is not always clear’.

The word research in English seems to be modeled on the French recherche, which originally meant a thorough investigation. That might be because the investigation starts from first principles or simply using re- emphatically. So it might be similar to the Spanish frijoles refritos, which aren’t fried again but well or thoroughly fried, as the great expert on Mexican food Diana Kennedy points out.

Why is it called 'Research'?

Let’s dive into the term 'research' and explore its meaning in detail. The term research itself is rooted in the structured and systematic approach to inquiry that involves formulating hypotheses, collecting data, and analyzing results. This systematic nature applies whether the research is building on existing knowledge or exploring new territory.

Systematic Investigation

Research involves a structured approach to inquiry, which includes formulating hypotheses, collecting data, and analyzing results. This systematic nature applies whether the research is building on existing knowledge or exploring new territory. The process ensures that findings are reliable and can be replicated by other researchers.

Exploratory Nature

Research can be exploratory, meaning it seeks to investigate new ideas, concepts, or phenomena that have not yet been studied. This exploratory aspect is a fundamental part of the research process. Exploratory research is open-ended and does not have a predefined outcome, making it crucial for discovering new patterns and insights.

Contribution to Knowledge

Any research effort aims to contribute to the broader body of knowledge. Even if the topic is being examined for the first time, the process of inquiry and the results produced represent a form of knowledge generation. This is especially true in fields like science, where new findings can lead to breakthroughs and innovations.

Revisiting and Refining

Research often involves revisiting ideas, theories, or data. Even initial inquiries can lead to further questions and deeper investigations, making the process iterative. This ongoing process ensures that knowledge is continually refined and expanded upon.

Conclusion

In summary, the term research refers to a structured and systematic approach to inquiry that includes exploratory elements and aims to contribute to the broader body of knowledge. It is a dynamic process that involves revisiting and refining ideas, ensuring that the findings are thorough and reliable.