What is the origin of the word 'ask' and its meaning?

v., asked, ask·ing, asks. v.tr. # To put a question to: When we realized that we didn't know the answer, we asked the teacher. # To seek an answer to: ask a question. # To seek information about: asked directions.# ## To make a request of: asked me for a loan. ## To make a request for. Often used with an infinitive or clause: ask a favor of a friend; asked to go along on the trip; asked that he be allowed to stay out late. # To require or call for as a price or condition: asked ten dollars for the book. # To expect or demand: ask too much of a child. # To invite: asked them to dinner. # Archaic. To publish, as marriage banns. v.intr. # To make inquiry; seek information. # To make a request: asked for help. idioms: ask for it (or trouble) Informal. # To persist in an action despite the likelihood that it will result in difficulty or punishment. [Middle English asken, from Old English ācsian, āscian.]asker ask'er n. SYNONYMS ask, question, inquire, query, interrogate, examine, quiz. These verbs mean to seek information. Askis the most neutral term.

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