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Synonyms

inquisitiveness

American  
[in-kwiz-i-tiv-nis] / ɪnˈkwɪz ɪ tɪv nɪs /

noun

  1. the quality of being given to asking questions; intellectual curiosity or eagerness for knowledge.

    Younger students often have an amazing sense of curiosity and inquisitiveness that naturally leads them into exploring and learning.

  2. the quality of being excessively or inappropriately curious about other people’s affairs; nosiness.

    My landlord's inquisitiveness made me determined to seek more desirable accommodations elsewhere.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of inquisitiveness

inquisitive ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Vocabulary lists containing inquisitiveness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Of course she winds up paying for her inquisitiveness.

From The Wall Street Journal Oct. 17, 2025

The BTP's review found that while no act or omission in the investigation was made maliciously, there was a "lack of professional inquisitiveness exacerbated by dilatory and lazy practices".

From BBC Aug. 10, 2023

I now bear a visual reminder of one creature that sparked my wonder of the natural world, and of those people I cherish because of their inquisitiveness, their science knowledge, integrity and their friendship.

From Seattle Times Apr. 28, 2023

To give scientists the confidence and support they need to make truly great new discoveries, we need to get the public to see science as the daring act of inquisitiveness that it is.

From Salon May 3, 2022

Mr. Loring had a vulnerable, rubicund face with eyebrows arched into constant and natural inquisitiveness.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy

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