questioning

[kwes-chuh-ning]

adjective

1. indicating or implying a question.

   a questioning tone in her voice.

2. characterized by or indicating intellectual curiosity; inquiring.

   an alert and questioning mind.

noun

1. an inquiry or interrogation.

questioning

/ ˈkwɛstʃənɪŋ /

adjective

1. proceeding from or characterized by a feeling of doubt or uncertainty

2. enthusiastic or eager for philosophical or other investigations; intellectually stimulated

   an alert and questioning mind

Other Word Forms

• questioningly adverb
• half-questioning adjective
• half-questioningly adverb
• unquestioning adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of questioning¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; question + -ing ², -ing ¹

Example Sentences

It was a pointed response to conservative outrage, including Fox News commentators questioning whether a Puerto Rican should headline “America’s game” and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reportedly threatening ICE enforcement at the event.

From Salon

The US positioned its strikes on alleged drug boats as self-defence, despite many lawyers questioning their legality.

From BBC

Kelly Sharkey, a North Charleston mother of two, was exasperated, questioning what lawmakers’ endgame is in pursuing SB 323 and whose lives they really wish to protect.

From Salon

The lawyer for Lim Kimya's widow told news agency AFP that she was "probably satisfied" with Friday's verdict, though she was "still questioning who ordered the crime".

From BBC

Game 1 left the Dodgers questioning how they could defend their World Series title with such an unreliable group of relievers.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• examination