Interrogate comes from the Latin prefix inter-, “between” added to the Latin verb rogare, “to ask.” To interrogate someone is not just asking a few polite questions over a cup of tea.

What does interrogating someone mean?

transitive verb. 1 : to question formally and systematically. 2 : to give or send out a signal to (a device, such as a transponder) for triggering an appropriate response.

How do interrogations start?

In the interrogation room, the first officer states that the suspect is guilty and that everyone knows it, the suspect too. The officer next offers a theory of the crime, sometimes supported by some evidence, sometimes fabricated, with details that the suspect later can parrot back to the officer.