Inquisitor
/ɪnˈkwɪzɪtər/noun
A person who conducts an official investigation, especially in a religious context.
Did you know?The Inquisition, associated with the term, was not only about heresy but also about the manipulation of truth and belief systems, reflecting deep-seated fears of the unknown.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
inquisitor
“One who investigates or examines.”
12th Century
Medieval Latin
inquisitio
“A formal investigation or examination, often with authority.”
13th Century
Old French
inquisitour
“An investigator, especially in a legal or ecclesiastical context.”
14th Century
Middle English
inquisitour
“A person who inquires or investigates, typically with power.”
Modern English
English
inquisitor
“A person with authority to conduct investigations, particularly for heresy.”
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