percontation

noun2

1. •
   (no longer used, rare) an enquiry

   • Percontation. An enquiry. — 1623
2. •
   (no longer used, rare) A question which cannot properly be given a one-word answer like “yes” or “no”.

   • Percontation is a thing for which we cannot answer significantly, as in Interrogation, yes: but as thus, he dwelleth in such a place. — 1656