inquiry

in-quir-y · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A question or request for information.

  2. 2.

    A formal investigation into a particular matter.

  3. 3.

    The process of seeking knowledge through questioning and research.

Forms

plural: inquiries

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    line of inquiry — a particular direction of investigation
  • •
    public inquiry — an official investigation open to public scrutiny
  • •
    spirit of inquiry — an attitude of curiosity and openness to learning

Related words

Antonyms: answer, response
See also: inquire, investigation, research
Synonyms: examination, investigation, question

Etymology

From Latin inquirere ("to seek for, search into"), from in- ("into") + quaerere ("to seek"). Entered English in the 15th century. The spelling "enquiry" is also used, especially in British English.