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INQUISITIVE
| Pronunciation (US): |  | (GB): | |
I. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Showing curiosity
Example:
raised a speculative eyebrow
Synonyms:
inquisitive; questioning; speculative; wondering
Classified under:
Similar:
curious (eager to investigate and learn or learn more (sometimes about others' concerns))
Derivation:
inquire (have a wish or desire to know something)
inquisitiveness (a state of active curiosity)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Inquiring or appearing to inquire
Example:
the police are proverbially inquisitive
Classified under:
Similar:
inquiring (given to inquiry)
Derivation:
inquire (have a wish or desire to know something)
inquire (conduct an inquiry or investigation of)
inquisitiveness (a state of active curiosity)
Context examples:
But in Clerval I saw the image of my former self; he was inquisitive and anxious to gain experience and instruction.
(Frankenstein, by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley)
At last, having held a document before her glasses for nearly five minutes, she presented it across the counter, accompanying the act by another inquisitive and mistrustful glance—it was for J.E.
(Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë)
As no one appeared but an inquisitive daddy-longlegs, who examined her work with interest, she went to walk, got caught in a shower, and came home dripping.
(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)
"You are too inquisitive, St. John," murmured Mary in a low voice; but he leaned over the table and required an answer by a second firm and piercing look.
(Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë)
Cast away at the very bottom of the table was the Professor, shouting answers to the questions of a very inquisitive, deaf old gentleman on one side, and talking philosophy with a Frenchman on the other.
(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)
