quest
UK: kwɛst | US: kwɛst
n. a long or arduous search for something
n. (historical) a medieval expedition by knights to achieve a goal
v. (archaic) to search for something
quest = que<seek> + st<noun suffix>
- que<seek>: From Latin quaerere (to seek, ask), preserved in words like "question" and "query."
- st<noun suffix>: A nominalizing suffix indicating an action or result, common in Old French/Latin-derived nouns (e.g., "request," "arrest").
Etymology Origin:
The word "quest" entered English via Old French queste (a search), which originated from Latin quaesta (thing sought). Its core meaning of "seeking" has remained consistent, though its usage narrowed from general searching to purposeful journeys (e.g., knightly quests) and metaphorical pursuits (e.g., a quest for knowledge).
The knight embarked on a quest to find the Holy Grail.
Her lifelong quest for truth led her to study philosophy.
The team’s quest to solve the puzzle took all night.
(Archaic) They quested through the forest for the lost artifact.
The documentary follows scientists on their quest to cure the disease.