Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Investigate \In*ves"ti*gate\, v. i.
   To pursue a course of investigation and study; to make
   investigation.

Investigate \In*ves"ti*gate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p.
   {Investigated}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Investigating}.] [L.
   investigatus, p. p. of investigare to investigate; pref. in-
   in + vestigare to track, trace. See {Vestige}.]
   To follow up step by step by patient inquiry or observation;
   to trace or track mentally; to search into; to inquire and
   examine into with care and accuracy; to find out by careful
   inquisition; as, to investigate the causes of natural
   phenomena.

Source : WordNet®

investigate
     v 1: investigate scientifically; "Let's investigate the syntax of
          Chinese" [syn: {look into}]
     2: conduct an inquiry or investigation of; "The district
        attorney's office investigated reports of possible
        irregularities"; "inquire into the disappearance of the
        rich old lady" [syn: {inquire}, {enquire}]