Definition of inquisition

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< inquiry

inquisitive >

in·qui·si·tion    (nkw-zshn, ng-) KEY 

NOUN:

1. The act of inquiring into a matter; an investigation. See Synonyms at inquiry.
2. Law
   1. An inquest.
   2. The verdict of a judicial inquiry.
3. 1. Inquisition A tribunal formerly held in the Roman Catholic Church and directed at the suppression of heresy.
   2. An investigation that violates the privacy or rights of individuals.
   3. A rigorous, harsh interrogation.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English inquisicioun, from Old French inquisicion, from Latin inqusti, inqustin-, from inqustus, past participle of inqurere, to inquire ; see inquire

OTHER FORMS:
inqui·sition·al(Adjective)