noun
inquisition
in-kwih-ZISH-uhn/ˌɪnkwɪˈzɪʃn/
A harsh or prolonged questioning or investigation.
Her parents turn every late arrival into an inquisition.
Etymology
A 'searching into' became a legal examination, including a search for grounds for accusation. The selected sense presents questioning as that kind of searching examination, experienced as harsh or prolonged rather than as a simple request.
More examples
- The interview feels more like an inquisition than a conversation.
- He refuses to endure another inquisition about his spending.
- The manager's weekly inquisitions leave the entire staff exhausted.
Forms
inquisition · inquisitions
inquisitorial adjective — Involving harsh questioning or intensive investigation.
Similar words
- interrogation
- Emphasizes direct, formal questioning rather than a broader investigation.
- grilling
- Informally describes intense questioning, often over a short period.
- investigation
- Covers systematic fact-finding without necessarily implying harsh treatment.