scrutinize
verbUK /ˈskɹuːtɨnaɪz/ · US /ˈskɹutn̩ˌaɪz/
Etymology From scrutiny + -ize.
1
To examine something with great care or detail, as to look for hidden or obscure flaws.
- to scrutinize the conduct or motives of individuals
- whose votes they were obliged to scrutinize1726, John Ayliffe, Parergon Juris Canonici Anglicani: Or, A Commentary, by Way of Supplement to the Canons and Constitutions of the Church of England. […], London: […] D. Leach, and sold by John Walthoe […], →OCLC:
1 more example
- Those pronounced him youngest who scrutinized his face the closest.1879, George Washington Cable, Old Creole Days:
2
To audit accounts etc in order to verify them.
- Related terms
- inscrutable, scrutineer, scrutiny