Inquest Definition
ĭnkwĕst
inquests
noun
An investigation conducted by a coroner, sometimes with the aid of a jury, into the cause of death of a person when the cause may be criminal.
American Heritage
A judicial inquiry, as a coroner's investigation of a death.
Webster's New World
The jury or group holding such an inquiry.
Webster's New World
A hearing conducted by a judge or magistrate to determine damages when a defendant has defaulted.
American Heritage
The verdict of such an inquiry.
Webster's New World
Antonyms:
Other Word Forms of Inquest
Noun
Singular:
inquest
Plural:
inquestsOrigin of Inquest
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Middle English enqueste from Old French from Vulgar Latin inquaesīta thing inquired into alteration of Latin inquīsīta feminine past participle of inquīrere to inquire into inquire
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
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From Old French enqueste (Modern French enquête), from Vulgar Latin inquirere, or from Medieval Latin inquesta < in + Latin quaesita.
From Wiktionary
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