transitive verb

1. to use words in seeking the answer to (a question); try to find out about by inquiring
2. to put a question to (a person); inquire of
3. to request; solicit; beg
4. to demand or expect as a price they ask ten dollars for it
5. to be in need of or call for (a thing)
6. to invite

Etymology: ME askien < OE āscian < IE base *ais-, to wish, desire > Sans iccháti, (he) seeks, OHG eiscōn, inquire, demand

intransitive verb

1. to request information
2. to make a request (for)
3. to inquire (about, after, or for)
4. to behave in such a way that one appears to be looking (for trouble, punishment, etc.)