inquisitive

[in-kwiz-i-tiv]

adjective

1. given to inquiry, research, or asking questions; eager for knowledge; intellectually curious.

   an inquisitive mind.

   Antonyms: uninterested

2. unduly or inappropriately curious; prying.

noun

1. an inquisitive person.

   thick curtains to frustrate inquisitives.

inquisitive

/ ɪnˈkwɪzɪtɪv /

adjective

1. excessively curious, esp about the affairs of others; prying

2. eager to learn; inquiring

Other Word Forms

• inquisitively adverb
• inquisitiveness noun
• superinquisitive adjective
• superinquisitively adverb
• uninquisitive adjective
• uninquisitively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of inquisitive¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; from Late Latin inquīsītīvus, equivalent to Latin inquīsīt(us) ( inquisition ) + -īvus -ive; replacing Middle English inquisitif, from Middle French, from Late Latin, as above

Synonym Study

See curious.

Example Sentences

And its young members were initially inquisitive about how Social Security worked and what most needed fixing.

From Salon

Eye‑level with an inquisitive Arctic wolf pack in −35 C, Mr Eshel fulfilled his dream to photograph these elusive creatures.

From BBC

Zoo officials said he was inquisitive, gentle and smart.

From Los Angeles Times

When people comment on them, I sometimes can’t tell if it’s out of admiration or a vague yet inquisitive repulsion.

From Los Angeles Times

“Toddlers are inquisitive and explore the environment around them,” Dr. Susan J. Kressly, president of the pediatric academy, wrote in the letter.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• analytical 
• nosy