inquest

Meanings

1. A formal investigation, often held before a jury, especially one into the cause of a death
2. An inquiry, typically into an undesired outcome
3. The jury hearing such an inquiry, and the result of the inquiry
4. enquiry; quest; search
5. Prosecutorial proceeding on whether or not a warrantless arrestee is charged with an offense.

Etymology

From Middle English enquest, from Old French enqueste (Modern French enquête), from Vulgar Latin inquirere, or from Medieval Latin inquesta < in + Latin quaesita.