Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

inquisition

Noun

/ˌɪn.kwɪˈzɪʃ.ən/

Definition

A formal investigation or systematic questioning, especially one conducted by a judiciary authority.

Examples

The grandmother’s inquisition into his whereabouts made him nervous.
The inquisition conducted by the committee revealed many discrepancies in the reports.
During the inquisition, the accused was often subjected to intense scrutiny and pressure.

Meaning

Inquisition can refer to the act of examining or questioning someone closely, often in a legal or authoritative context. Historically, it is also associated with the judicial process used by the Catholic Church to identify and punish heresy.