laboratory

word

/ˈɫæbɹəˌtɔɹi/
LA-bruh-tor-ee
/lɐbˈɒɹətɹˌi/
luh-BO-ruh-tree

Definition

A laboratory is a room or building where scientific experiments, tests, and research are done. It can also mean a place for medical testing, such as analyzing blood or other samples.

Usage & Nuances

Often shortened to 'lab' in everyday English. Common combinations include 'science laboratory', 'research laboratory', 'computer laboratory', and 'medical laboratory'. Don't confuse it with 'factory' or 'workshop', which are used for making or repairing things rather than scientific testing.

Example Sentences

The students are in the laboratory now.

basic

She works in a medical laboratory.

basic

We did a simple test in the laboratory.

basic

The sample is still in the laboratory, so we won't have the results until tomorrow.

natural

They've built a new laboratory on campus for environmental research.

natural

After the fire, the laboratory had to close for several weeks.

natural