scrutiny

[ skroot-n-ee ]

noun

, plural scru·ti·nies.

1. a searching examination or investigation; minute inquiry.
2. surveillance; close and continuous watching or guarding.
3. a close and searching look.

scrutiny

/ ˈskruːtɪnɪ /

noun

1. close or minute examination
2. a searching look
3. 1. (in the early Christian Church) a formal testing that catechumens had to undergo before being baptized
   2. a similar examination of candidates for holy orders

Other Words From

• non·scruti·ny noun plural nonscrutinies
• re·scruti·ny noun plural rescrutinies
• self-scruti·ny noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrutiny¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin scrūtinium “a search, inquiry, investigation,” derivative of scrūtārī “to search thoroughly”

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrutiny¹

C15: from Late Latin scrūtinium an investigation, from scrūtārī to search (originally referring to rag-and-bone men), from scrūta rubbish

Synonym Study

See examination.

Example Sentences

Part of the reason for this decision is the intense media scrutiny they face.

From BBC

"We welcome any research into dystonia, but it is crucial that new treatments undergo thorough scrutiny before being considered for widespread use."

From BBC

It prompted criticism from a House of Lords committee, which said the change was being introduced "at a pace that does not permit appropriate scrutiny".

From BBC

Its rival British Gas has come under scrutiny in the past for force-fitting the devices and chasing customers over incorrect bills.

From BBC

Other areas of potential scrutiny are teacher job protections in K-12 schools and Head Start preschools.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• analysis
• audit
• inquiry
• inspection
• investigation
• review
• search
• surveillance