query

[kweer-ee]

noun

plural

queries 

1. a question; an inquiry.

2. mental reservation; doubt.

3. Printing.,  a question mark (?), especially as added on a manuscript, proof sheet, or the like, indicating doubt as to some point in the text.

4. an inquiry from a writer to an editor of a magazine, newspaper, etc., regarding the acceptability of or interest in an idea for an article, news story, or the like: usually presented in the form of a letter that outlines or describes the projected piece.

verb (used with object)

queried, querying 

1. to ask or inquire about.

   No one queried his presence.

2. to question as doubtful or obscure.

   to query a statement.

3. Printing.,  to mark (a manuscript, proof sheet, etc.) with a query.

4. to ask questions of.

query

/ ˈkwɪərɪ /

noun

1. a question, esp one expressing doubt, uncertainty, or an objection

2. a less common name for question mark

verb

1. to express uncertainty, doubt, or an objection concerning (something)

2. to express as a query

   "What's up now?" she queried

3. to put a question to (a person); ask

Other Word Forms

• queryingly adverb
• outquery verb (used with object)
• unqueried adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of query¹

First recorded in 1625–35; alteration (with the influence of -y ³ ) of earlier quere, from Latin quaere quaere

Word History and Origins

Origin of query¹

C17: from earlier quere, from Latin quaere ask!, from quaerere to seek, inquire

Example Sentences

My query to the White House, asking what exactly is so offensive about this characterization of the Mexicans who stayed in California after it became part of the U.S., was acknowledged yet not answered.

From Los Angeles Times

But residents reacted with a mix of anger and confusion on local social media groups, with many querying the council's motives.

From BBC

It is understandable that the Northern Irishman might find the constant queries a little trying.

From BBC

A Chinese embassy statement in response to BBC queries accused the exhibition of openly promoting Tibetan, Uyghur and Hong Kong independence.

From BBC

In the same documentary in which he queried Rooney's application, Brady also referred to Birmingham players from that disastrous 2023-24 campaign as "lazy and entitled".

From BBC

Related Words

• inquiry 
• objection 
• question 
• questioning 
• reservation 
• skepticism