inquiring

American  

[in-kwahyuhr-ing] / ɪnˈkwaɪər ɪŋ /

adjective

1. seeking facts, information, or knowledge.

   an inquiring mind.

2. curious; probing; inquisitive in seeking facts.

   an inquiring reporter.

3. scrutinizing; questioning.

   He looked at his father with inquiring eyes.

---

inquiring British  

/ ɪnˈkwaɪərɪŋ /

adjective

1. seeking or tending to seek answers, information, etc

   an inquiring mind

---

Other Word Forms

• inquiringly adverb
• noninquiring adjective
• noninquiringly adverb
• uninquiring adjective

Etymology

Origin of inquiring

First recorded in 1595–1605; inquire + -ing ²

Example Sentences

DHS did not directly respond to a list of questions from the BBC inquiring about how it would address the water supply.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Soon after, brands reached out for the first time inquiring about possibly paying her for promotional partnerships.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

“I don’t have my spiel yet!” she warns, inquiring for the first of a few times what I thought of it and whether I enjoyed it.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 3, 2026

Andie tosses a few flirtatious barbs across the checkout counter, inquiring if Blane will be paying with cash or an American Express Platinum card.

From Salon • Feb. 28, 2026

“Mother, why didn’t Mr. Laurence like to have Laurie play?” asked Jo, who was of an inquiring disposition.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott