Emily Dickinson Lexicon

PROBE, n. [from L. probo; Fr. eprouvette, a probe; G. probe, proof; Russ. probivayu, to pierce. The primary sense is to thrust, to drive, from straining, exertion of force.]

A surgeon's instrument for examining the depth or other circumstances of a wound, ulcer or cavity, or the direction of a sinus, or for searching for stones in the bladder and the like. – Encyc. Parr.