probe

1. Any of various medical instruments used to explore wounds, organs, etc.
2. An anal probe, a fictional instrument commonly used by aliens on abducted humans.
3. Something which penetrates something else, as though to explore; something which obtains information. (figuratively)
4. An act of probing; a prod, a poke.
5. An investigation or inquiry. (figuratively) · They launched a probe into the cause of the accident.
6. A tube attached to an aircraft which can be fitted into the drogue from a tanker aircraft to allow for aerial refuelling.
7. A small device, especially an electrode, used to explore, investigate or measure something by penetrating or being placed in it. · Insert the probe into the soil and read the temperature.
8. A small, usually uncrewed, spacecraft used to acquire information or measurements about its surroundings.

Plural probes