questioning

American  

[kwes-chuh-ning] / ˈkwɛs tʃə nɪŋ /

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.

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noun

1. an inquiry or interrogation.

questioning British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of questioning

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

Example Sentences

At the time Bondi apparently sought to redirect questioning by a congressional panel charged with overseeing her department’s work toward a discussion of the U.S. equities market, the Dow indeed was riding high.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

"More AI," said one viral Threads post, questioning why his cup remained full after a large sip.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

During the process, the insertion of a breathing tube damaged his vocal cords, leaving him questioning whether he would ever be able to sing again, he told The Times in 2021.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Boyle highlighted that Wunderbar already pays for street cleaning and lighting outside its venues, questioning what it got in return for the high taxes.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

I wasn’t expecting anyone else to be here, and I shoot my parents questioning looks.

From "I Can Make This Promise" by Christine Day

Related Words

• examination