stud·y 
(stŭdē)
(stŭdē)n. pl. stud·ies
1.
a. The effort to acquire knowledge, as by reading, observation, or research: The study of language has overturned many misconceptions.
b. An act or effort made in the pursuit of knowledge: applied himself to his studies.
c. A branch of knowledge or department of learning: the study of geography; graduate studies.
2.
a. Attentive examination or analysis: The new drug is still under study.
b. A detailed examination, analysis, or experiment investigating a subject or phenomenon: conducted a study of children's reading habits.
c. A document or publication presenting the results of such an endeavor.
3.
a. A literary work treating a particular subject or character: The novel is a study of Irish childhood.
b. A preliminary sketch, as for a work of art or literature.
4. Medicine A diagnostic test.
5. Music A composition intended as a technical exercise.
6. A state of mental absorption: She is in a deep study.
7. A room intended or equipped for studying or writing.
8. A noteworthy or interesting example: He is a study in contradictions.
v. stud·ied, stud·y·ing, stud·ies
v.tr.
1.
a. To apply one's mind purposefully to the acquisition of knowledge or understanding of (a subject).
b. To take (a course) at a school.
2. To try to memorize: studied the lines for her role in the play.
3.
a. To perform a study of; investigate: We need to study the problem further.
b. To read or look at carefully: studied the map; studied his expression.
c. To give careful thought to; contemplate: Let's study our next move.
4. Medicine To perform a diagnostic test on (a part of the body, for example).
v.intr.
1. To apply oneself to learning, especially by reading: studied for the exam.
2. To pursue a course of study: studied at Yale.
3. To ponder; reflect.
[Middle English studie, from Old French estudie, from Latin studium, from studēre, to study.]