expedition
ek-spuh-DISH-un
/ˌɛkspəˈdɪʃən/
A journey undertaken by a group of people with a particular purpose, especially that of exploration, research, or war.
An expedition is more than a trip; it implies organization, a specific goal, and often a degree of difficulty.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'ex-' (out) and 'pes/pedis' (foot). It literally meant to free the feet from fetters, implying being ready for action or travel.
Word relationships
- mission: A mission focuses more on the objective; an expedition focuses on the journey to reach it.
- voyage: A voyage is specifically a long journey by sea or in space.
- stagnation: The state of not moving or progressing.
Commonly confused with
- excursion: An excursion is a short, leisurely trip, whereas an expedition is long and purposeful.
Word family
- expeditionary (adjective): Relating to or forming an expedition.
- expeditious (adjective): Done with speed and efficiency (related to the root meaning of 'setting free').
Collocations
- scientific expedition
- mountaineering expedition
- launch an expedition
- expedition leader
Example sentences
- "The Lewis and Clark expedition was commissioned to explore the newly acquired western portion of the United States." Historical exploration.
- "The deep-sea expedition discovered three new species of bioluminescent fish." Scientific research.
Memory hook
Ex-ped-ition: Free your feet (ped) to go out (ex) on a mission. Feet (ped) on a mission.
When not to use
Don't use it for a casual weekend camping trip with friends.
Fun facts
- The word 'expedite' (to speed up) comes from the same root—freeing the feet so you can move faster.
Explore more words
excursion, campaign, destination, endeavor, procession, mobilize
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