Definition of enquire of

The phrase "enquire of" has been used in the English language for centuries to mean asking for information or seeking advice. Its origins can be traced back to Middle English, around the 13th century. At that time, English was heavily influenced by Old French, a language spoken in medieval Europe. In Old French, the verb "enquerir" meant "to ask questions" or "to investigate." This word entered the English language as "enquirer" (noun) and "enquire" (verb). In Old French, the word "enquirer" was derived from two parts: "en-" meaning "in" or "on," and "quirer" meaning "to seek" or "to search." This prefix "en-" was commonly used in Old French to indicate motion towards or involvement in something. As the English language evolved and was standardized, "enquirer" (noun) became less commonly used, and "inquirer" (also derived from "enquire") took its place. The verb "enquire" has remained, however, and is still commonly used today in British English. In summary, the phrase "enquire of" has its roots in Old French, where it was derived from the words "en-" and "quirer" to mean "to seek" or "to search." It has since evolved into "enquire," a verb still widely used in British English today.