Meaning of the word "course of" in English

What does "course of" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

course of

US /kɔːrs əv/
UK /kɔːs əv/

Phrase

the way something happens or develops

Example:
In the course of the investigation, new evidence emerged.
Over the course of the next few months, the situation improved.