laboratory
A laboratory is a room or building equipped for scientific experiments, research, or the testing and analysis of substances. It provides a controlled environment where scientists and technicians can use specialized equipment to conduct studies or manufacture chemicals.
Examples
3 of 5I need to drop by the laboratory to pick up my medical test results.
I need to visit the testing facility to collect my medical results.
The institution has inaugurated a state-of-the-art laboratory for advanced robotics research.
The organization has opened a high-tech facility for studying advanced robotics.
I'll be in the lab all afternoon if you need to find me.
I will be working in the research room for the rest of the day.
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'Labor' (work) + 'tory' (place). It is a 'place for work', specifically scientific work.
Quick Quiz
The scientist spent twelve hours in the _______ analyzing the chemical samples.
Correct!
The correct answer is: laboratory
Examples
I need to drop by the laboratory to pick up my medical test results.
everydayI need to visit the testing facility to collect my medical results.
The institution has inaugurated a state-of-the-art laboratory for advanced robotics research.
formalThe organization has opened a high-tech facility for studying advanced robotics.
I'll be in the lab all afternoon if you need to find me.
informalI will be working in the research room for the rest of the day.
The experiment was conducted under strictly controlled laboratory conditions to ensure accuracy.
academicThe scientific test was performed in a regulated environment to guarantee precise results.
Our corporate laboratory is currently developing a more efficient fuel additive.
businessOur company's research center is creating a better type of fuel supplement.
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
lab rat
a person who is the subject of an experiment
laboratory-grown
produced in a lab rather than in nature
in a laboratory setting
within a controlled scientific environment
Often Confused With
A lavatory is a bathroom or toilet, while a laboratory is a place for scientific research.
Usage Notes
In common speech and even in many professional settings, the word is almost always shortened to 'lab'. However, 'laboratory' should be used in formal writing and official titles.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse the spelling by forgetting the 'o' after 'r' or mixing it up with 'lavatory'. Also, note that British English stresses the second syllable (la-BOR-atory), while American English stresses the first (LAB-ratory).
Memory Tip
Think of 'Labor' (work) + 'tory' (place). It is a 'place for work', specifically scientific work.
Word Origin
From the Medieval Latin word 'laboratorium', which comes from 'laborare' meaning 'to work'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western culture, laboratories are often associated with 'mad scientists' in fiction or the pinnacle of objective, clinical truth in news and media.
Quick Quiz
The scientist spent twelve hours in the _______ analyzing the chemical samples.
Correct!
The correct answer is: laboratory
Related Vocabulary
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percentage
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