B1noun3K

Laboratory

UK /["/ləˈbɒrətri/"]/US /["/ˈlæbrətɔːri/"]/

Definition

a room or building used for scientific research, experiments, testing, etc.

In simple words: A special room for scientific experiments.

Examples

  • a **clinical/research laboratory**
  • to send a specimen to the laboratory for analysis
  • The effects of weathering can be simulated in the laboratory.
  • **laboratory experiments/tests**
  • The athletes' reflexes were tested **under laboratory conditions**.
  • She has donated money to establish a pharmaceutical laboratory.
  • They work in a laboratory studying growth patterns.
  • laboratory tests on animals
  • simulated driving in a laboratory setting

Usage notes

Used in scientific and educational contexts. Not appropriate for casual conversations unless referring to science. Can also refer to the place where medical tests are done.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'lab-oratory' — imagine a lab where scientists conduct experiments.

Collocations

  • commercial
  • industrial
  • school
  • assistant
  • scientist
  • technician
  • in a/​the laboratory

Synonyms

  • lab
  • research facility
  • science lab
  • testing center

Antonyms

  • field
  • outdoors

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'laborer' — a person who works with their hands.
  • Mispronounced as 'laboratree' instead of 'laboratory'.
  • Using 'laboratory' informally in non-scientific contexts.