ques·tion (kwĕs'chən)
n.

1. 1. An expression of inquiry that invites or calls for a reply.
   2. An interrogative sentence, phrase, or gesture.
2. A subject or point open to controversy; an issue.
3. A difficult matter; a problem: a question of ethics.
4. A point or subject under discussion or consideration.
5. 1. A proposition brought up for consideration by an assembly.
   2. The act of bringing a proposal to vote.
6. Uncertainty; doubt: There is no question about the validity of the enterprise.

v., -tioned, -tion·ing, -tions.

v.tr.

1. To put a question to. See synonyms at ask.
2. To examine (a witness, for example) by questioning; interrogate.
3. To express doubt about; dispute.
4. To analyze; examine.

v.intr.
To ask questions.

idioms:

in question

1. Under consideration or discussion.

out of the question

1. Not worth considering; impossible: Starting over is out of the question.

[Middle English, from Old French, legal inquiry, from Latin quaestiō, quaestiōn-, from *quaestus, obsolete past participle of quaerere, to ask, seek.]

questioner ques'tion·er n.
questioningly ques'tion·ing·ly adv.

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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