Definition

1. Noun:

   • A scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact: An "experiment" is a methodical process carried out under controlled conditions to acquire new knowledge or validate existing theories.
   • A new activity, method, or experience tried out to see its effects or results: An "experiment" can also refer to any novel attempt or trial in various aspects of life, not just science.

2. Verb (intransitive):

   • To perform a scientific experiment: To conduct a test or investigation in a systematic, controlled manner.
   • To try something new or different, especially in order to gain experience or see what happens: To engage in an activity with an uncertain outcome to learn from it.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The laboratory experiment confirmed the researcher's hypothesis.
  • Moving to a new city was a bold experiment in independence for her.

• Verb:

  • Scientists must experiment carefully to ensure accurate results.
  • As a chef, I love to experiment with unusual flavor combinations.

Advanced Usage

• "to experiment on/upon": to use a subject (e.g., an animal, a substance) in a test.
  • It is controversial to experiment on primates.
• "to experiment with": to try using a particular method, substance, or style.
  • The artist experimented with digital media for the first time.

Variants and Related Words

• Experimental (adj): based on, used in, or involving experiment.
  • The treatment is still in an experimental stage.
• Experimentation (n): the process of performing experiments.
  • Scientific progress relies on careful experimentation.

Synonyms

• Noun: Test, trial, investigation, research, pilot study.
• Verb: Test, try (out), investigate, research, sample.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

• Experiment with: (as shown in Advanced Usage) To test or try something new.
  • He's been experimenting with different guitar techniques.

Related Idioms

• "An experiment in living": A deliberate attempt to live one's life in a new or different way.
  • Their year abroad was an experiment in living more simply.

Noun

1. a venture at something new or different
   • as an experiment he decided to grow a beard
2. the testing of an idea
   • it was an experiment in living
   • not all experimentation is done in laboratories
3. the act of conducting a controlled test or investigation

Verb

1. try something new, as in order to gain experience
   • Students experiment sexually
   • The composer experimented with a new style
2. to conduct a test or investigation
   • We are experimenting with the new drug in order to fight this disease