Socratic method has invaded common language to the point it has lost some of its original meaning.

Absolutely. As I say, I find the term ambiguous, but I don't disagree with the claim.

That said, I have often run into the problem of people getting extremely anxious when asked questions that don't quite fit into their script of how the conversation is supposed to go. Sometimes that's just because their beliefs are fragile and rigidly held, but sometimes it seems more that they're afraid I'm going to try to make them look/feel stupid. So it's something I try to stay aware of.

EDIT: And I just noticed your edit, and was amused.