inquiry Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a search for knowledge
    enquiry; research.
    • their pottery deserves more research than it has received
  2. noun an instance of questioning
    enquiry; interrogation; question; query.
    • there was a question about my training
    • we made inquiries of all those who were present
  3. noun a systematic investigation of a matter of public interest
    enquiry.

WordNet

In*quir"y noun
Etymology
See Inquire.
Wordforms
plural Inquiries
Definitions
  1. The act of inquiring; a seeking for information by asking questions; interrogation; a question or questioning.
    He could no path nor track of foot descry, Nor by inquiry learn, nor guess by aim. Spenser.
    The men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate. Acts x. 17.
  2. Search for truth, information, or knoledge; examination into facts or principles; research; invextigation; as, physical inquiries.
    All that is wanting to the perfection of this art will undoubtedly be found, if able men . . . will make inquiry into it. Dryden.
    Syn. -- Interrogation; interrogatory; question; query; scrutiny; investigation; research; examination.

Webster 1913