Meaning of Research 

    In this article titled 'meaning of research', you will find various author's definitions of research and finally find a complete definition of what research means.

Meaning of Research

Etymological Meaning of Research :

    The word "research" comes from the Medieval French verb "rechercher," which means 'to actively seek something'. Research is the methodical, thorough investigation of a certain issue, problem, or concern. Research is also a methodical investigation that looks for fresh information in any field of study. Finding answers to particular issues and coming to fresh conclusions are both aided by it.

Literal Meaning of Research :

    The term ‘Research’ consists of two words : Research = Re + Search ‘Re’ means again and again and ‘Search’ means to find out something new.

    Therefore, the research is a process of which a person observes the phenomena again and again and collects the data and on the basis of data he draws some conclusions. However, different people have expressed different opinions about the research.

Definition of Research by authors :

• According to Wikipedia Research is "creative and systematic work undertaken to increase the stock of knowledge".
• D. Slesinger and D. Stephenspn in the Encyclopedia of Social Sciences define research as "the manipulation of things, concepts or symbols for the purpose of generalizing to extend, correct or verify knowledge, whether that knowledge aids in construction of theory or in the practice of an art".
• Francis G, Cornell defines research as, "the activity of collecting information in an orderly and systematic fashion".
• The Advanced Learner’s Dictionary of Current English spells out the meaning of ‘research’ as ‘a careful investigation or inquiry specifically through search for new facts in any branch of knowledge’.
• Redman and Mory, in a similar tone, define research as a ‘systematized effort to gain new knowledge’.
• According to the Webster’s International Dictionary, ‘research’ is ‘a careful, critical inquiry or explanation in seeking facts or principles; diligent investigation in order to ascertain something’.
• D Slesinger and M Stephenson perceived the term ‘research’ as ‘the manipulation of things, concepts or symbols for the purpose of generalizing to extend, correct or verify knowledge, whether that knowledge aids in construction of theory or in the practice of an art’.
• C.C. Crawford “Research is simply a systematic and refined technique of thinking, employing specialized tools, instruments& procedures in order to obtain a more adequate solution of a problem than would be possible under ordinary means.”

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Besides, different authors have given different definitions about research.

Meaning of Research : Conclusion :-

    Analyzing the above definitions, it can finally be said that, research refers to a systematic and scientific investigation conducted to discover new knowledge or to validate and expand existing knowledge. It involves gathering and analyzing information, data, and evidence through various methods, such as experimentation, surveys, interviews, and observation. The aim of research is to gain a better understanding of a particular phenomenon or problem, to develop new theories, hypotheses, or models, and to provide evidence-based solutions and recommendations. Research is essential in many fields, including science, social sciences, engineering, medicine, and business, and it plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge, solving practical problems, and improving our lives.

References : 

• BEST, JOHN W. (1977), Research in Education, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, Prentice Hall Inc.
• DATTARYA, G. SAMANT (1966), The Making of Educational Research, Bombay, Popular Prakashan. 
• D Slesinger and M Stephenson, The Encyclopedia of Social Sciences, vol IX (MacMillan, 1930).
• Dr S.L. Gupta and Hitesh Gupta, Research Methodology, International Book House Pvt Ltd.
• Dr Vijay Upagude and Dr Arvind Shende, Research Methodology.
• GAGE, N. L. (1963), A Hand Book of Research in Teaching, New York, Rand McNally & Company. 
• HAYMAN, JOHN L. (1966), Research in Education, Ohio, Charles E. Merril Publishing Co.
  
• Kothari CR (2009 ), Research Methodology- Methods and Techniques, New Wiley Ltd.
• KOUL, LOKESH (1984), Methodology of Educational Research, New Delhi, Vikas Publishing House Pvt. Ltd.
• KERLINGER, FREDN N. (1964), Foundations of Behavioural Research, New York, Holt Rinehart and Winston Inc.,
• The Advanced Learner’s Dictionary of Current English (Oxford, 1952) 1069. 
• L V Redman and A V H Mory, The Romance of Research (1923) 10.
• MASON, E. J. and W. J. BRAMBLE (1978), Understanding and Conducting Research, New York, McGraw Hill Book Company. 
• O.R. Krishnaswami, Methodology of Research in Social Sciences.