inquiry

n.; pl. Inquiries [ See Inquire. ] [ Written also enquiry. ] 1. The act of inquiring; a seeking for information by asking questions; interrogation; a question or questioning. [ 1913 Webster ]

He could no path nor track of foot descry,
Nor by inquiry learn, nor guess by aim. Spenser. [ 1913 Webster ]

The men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate. Acts x. 17. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Search for truth, information, or knowledge; examination into facts or principles; research; investigation; as, physical inquiries. [ 1913 Webster ]

All that is wanting to the perfection of this art will undoubtedly be found, if able men . . . will make inquiry into it. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

Court of inquiry. See under Court. --
Writ of inquiry, a writ issued in certain actions at law, where the defendant has suffered judgment to pass against him by default, in order to ascertain and assess the plaintiff's damages, where they can not readily be ascertained by mere calculation. Burrill.

Syn. -- Interrogation; interrogatory; question; query; scrutiny; investigation; research; examination. [ 1913 Webster ]