quest
/kwɛst/
A quest suggests a journey that is as much about the internal transformation of the seeker as it is about the external goal. It carries a romantic, epic, or spiritual weight that distinguishes it from a simple 'search' or 'hunt'.
While a search is often practical (searching for keys), a quest implies a grand purpose, high stakes, and often an arduous path. It evokes imagery of mythology, chivalry, and long-term dedication.
In modern usage, it can be used metaphorically for lifelong ambitions—such as a "quest for truth" or a "quest for perfection"—shifting the meaning from a physical voyage to an intellectual or emotional pursuit.
Countable when referring to a specific mission or adventure. Uncountable when referring to the general act of seeking or searching.
💬Casual Conversation
Did you ever figure out how to reset the Wi-Fi for grandma's tablet? She keeps calling me.
Did you ever figure out how to reset the Wi-Fi for grandma's tablet? She keeps calling me.
Still on that epic quest, I guess. Her password is like a cryptic ancient riddle.
Still on that epic quest, I guess. Her password is like a cryptic ancient riddle.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
epic quest
A long, adventurous journey or search, often with a heroic or grand purpose.
The knight embarked on an epic quest to find the lost artifact.
quest for knowledge
A continuous and eager search for understanding and information.
Her life was dedicated to the quest for knowledge in the field of astrophysics.
quest for power
An intense desire and pursuit of control or influence over others.
The novel explores the protagonist's dangerous quest for power.
holy quest
A spiritual or religious journey undertaken for a sacred purpose.
The knights were sent on a holy quest to retrieve a sacred relic.
quest giver
In a game, a character who assigns a task or mission to the player.
The adventurer spoke to the quest giver to receive his next assignment.
Idioms & Sayings
on a quest
Engaged in a search or pursuit of something.
He's been on a quest to find the perfect cup of coffee for years.
Etymology
The word 'quest' comes from the Old French word 'quete', meaning 'search' or 'seek'. This, in turn, derives from the Latin word 'quaestus', which means 'gain' or 'acquisition'. The term gained prominence in English literature, particularly through Arthurian legends where knights embarked on 'quests' for holy relics or to prove their valor. Over time, its meaning broadened from a specific, often perilous, search to a more general pursuit or endeavor.