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noun Uncommon

inquest

IHNGK-wehst

Inquest (noun) means a formal legal investigation, especially into the cause of a death. Example: “The coroner opened an inquest into the factory accident.”

noun
1
A formal legal investigation, especially into the cause of a death.
"The coroner opened an inquest into the factory accident."
"An inquest ruled that the death was accidental."

How to use inquest

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn official investigation, usually into how or why someone died.

Common pairings
open an inquest inquest into coroner inquest

Word forms

inquests plural

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The coroner opened an _____ into the factory accident.

Etymology

From Old French enqueste, from Latin inquirere, "to inquire into" — ultimately in- plus quaerere, "to seek."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for inquest

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Frequently asked questions

What does “inquest” mean?

The word “inquest” means a formal legal investigation, especially into the cause of a death. In plain terms, an official investigation, usually into how or why someone died.

How do you pronounce “inquest”?

“Inquest” is pronounced IHNGK-wehst (/ˈɪŋkwɛst/ in IPA).

How do you use “inquest” in a sentence?

Here is “inquest” used in a sentence: “The coroner opened an inquest into the factory accident.”

What is another word for “inquest”?

Words with a similar meaning to “inquest” include inquisition.

What part of speech is “inquest”?

“Inquest” is a noun.

Where does the word “inquest” come from?

The word “inquest” comes from Latin. From Old French enqueste, from Latin inquirere, "to inquire into" — ultimately in- plus quaerere, "to seek.".

Is “inquest” a common word?

“Inquest” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial