# inquest

/ˈɪnˌkwɛst/ (US) · /ˈɪnkwɛst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inquest
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

an official investigation to find out the cause of someone's death. It usually happens when the death was sudden or violent.

For teachers: a judicial inquiry to ascertain the facts relating to an incident, most commonly a sudden or unexplained death. Often conducted by a coroner or a jury.

## Examples

- The coroner opened an inquest into the fatal accident.
- Following the discovery of the body, the local authorities ordered an inquest to determine if there was any foul play.
- The public inquest revealed significant safety failures at the factory, leading to a complete overhaul of the regional building codes and industrial regulations.

## Usage notes

- Often takes the preposition 'into' to specify the subject of the investigation.

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