Researcher
/rɪˈsɜːrtʃər/noun
A person who conducts systematic investigation to establish facts or develop knowledge.
Did you know?The root behind “research” is linked to Latin circus, meaning a circle or ring, suggesting investigation as a repeated circling around a mystery.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ker-
“To turn, bend, or move around; a proposed root connected with circular forms.”
Classical Latin
Latin
circus
“A circle, ring, or circular arena.”
Medieval Latin
Latin
circare
“To go around or traverse.”
12th–13th Century
Old French
recerchier / rechercher
“To search carefully, investigate, or seek again; formed with re- meaning “again” plus chercher, “to search.””
15th Century
English
research
“Systematic inquiry or investigation.”
17th Century
English
researcher
“A person who conducts research, formed with the agent suffix -er.”
Explore more surprising origins