noun

inquisitor

in-KWIZ-ih-ter/ɪnˈkwɪzɪtər/

A person who investigates or questions others harshly.

The relentless inquisitor demands answers and refuses to accept excuses.

A stern official questions an adult across a plain table, harsh interrogative posture without violence.

Etymology

inLatininto

+quisLatinask, seek

+itorLatinone who acts

The pieces describe someone who searches into a matter. Latin inquisitor already meant a legal investigator or collector of evidence, connecting the word to official questioning rather than casual curiosity.

In context

TED-Ed1:11

Roles on a tribunal could include an arresting constable, a prosecuting attorney, inquisitors to question the accused, and a scribe. A “Grand Inquisitor,” a member of the clergy selected by the king and queen, almost always led a tribunal.

Ugly History: The Spanish Inquisition - Kayla Wolf

More examples

The reporter acted like an inquisitor, interrupting every answer.
I need a friend right now, not an inquisitor.
The committee's inquisitors grilled her about every expense.

Forms

inquisitor · inquisitors

inquisitorial adjective — Involving harsh questioning or intrusive investigation.

Similar words

interrogator: Emphasizes sustained questioning without necessarily implying a harsh manner.
examiner: Suggests formal examination rather than harsh or intimidating questioning.