interpellate

verb3

1. •
   To question (someone) formally concerning official or governmental policy or business.
2. •
   To address (a person) in a way that presupposes a particular identification of them; to give (a person) an identity (which may or may not be accurate).

   • […] a Master of Ceremonies' words "Ladies and gentlemen" […] interpellates those being addressed as an audience, and one that is differentiated by gender. — 1996
3. •
   (no longer used) To interrupt (someone) so as to inform or question (that person about something).