inquisitiveness

[ in-kwiz-i-tiv-nis ]

noun

1. the quality of being given to asking questions; intellectual curiosity or eagerness for knowledge:

   Younger students often have an amazing sense of curiosity and inquisitiveness that naturally leads them into exploring and learning.

2. the quality of being excessively or inappropriately curious about other people’s affairs; nosiness:

   My landlord's inquisitiveness made me determined to seek more desirable accommodations elsewhere.

Other Words From

• su·per·in·quis·i·tive·ness noun
• un·in·quis·i·tive·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of inquisitiveness¹

inquisitive ( def ) + -ness ( def )

Example Sentences

That task could be painful, but Bogle, now 79, had the empathy, even keel and inquisitiveness to pull it off.

From Los Angeles Times

"There is an openness and inquisitiveness. He wants to ask questions, start dialogue and debate his game. That is great from our perspective."

From BBC

The BTP's review found that while no act or omission in the investigation was made maliciously, there was a "lack of professional inquisitiveness exacerbated by dilatory and lazy practices".

From BBC

I now bear a visual reminder of one creature that sparked my wonder of the natural world, and of those people I cherish because of their inquisitiveness, their science knowledge, integrity and their friendship.

From Seattle Times

I thought Charbel's inquisitiveness towards Gail as she so expertly tells the group about the ins and outs of all of these foods was sweet.

From Salon