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

Wales have lost a record 11 consecutive internationals which has resulted in the position of head coach Warren Gatland coming under scrutiny.

From BBC

As Bump notes, "their confirmations were never going to be easy, but Gaetz’s withdrawal both increases the amount of scrutiny that they face and establishes a precedent under which scandal-marred candidates step aside."

From Salon

Antitrust experts said it depends on what remedies the judge in the case decides on and whether they withstand scrutiny by an appeals court.

From Los Angeles Times

But there is growing scrutiny over how the tycoon and his companies operate.

From New York Times

That merger is expected to face regulators’ scrutiny.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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