I. noun
Synonyms: inquiry 1, delving, inquest, inquisition, investigation, probing, quest, research
II. verb
1.
Synonyms: explore , delve (into), dig (into), go (into), inquire (into), investigate, look (into), prospect, sift
2.
to try to find out (as by discreet questioning) the views or intentions of
probed the neighbors on the subject of political reform
Synonyms: feel out, sound (out)
Related Word: ask, catechize, examine, inquire, interrogate, query, quiz
Idioms: feel the pulse, launch a trial balloon, put out a feeler, see how the land lies, see which way the wind blows, test the water(s)
3.
Synonyms: scout , reconnoiter