'inquisition' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inquisitio,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'quaerere' meant 'to seek.'

'inquisitio' transformed into the Old French word 'inquisicion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inquisition' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a search or inquiry,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'intensive questioning or investigation.'