The word "ask" means to request information or to inquire about something. It involves expressing a desire to get an answer or to learn more about a subject. In everyday usage, asking can range from simple questions, like asking the time, to more complex inquiries, like asking someone for help or clarification on a topic.
The word "ask" originates from Old English "ascian," which means to "ask, request, or demand." It is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Old Norse "eisa" and the German "fragen," both meaning to ask or inquire.