scrutiny

noun

scru·​ti·​ny ˈskrü-tə-nē 

ˈskrüt-nē

plural scrutinies

1

: a searching study, inquiry, or inspection : examination

2

: a searching look

3

: close watch : surveillance

Synonyms of scrutiny

• inspection
• examination
• audit
• survey

Examples of scrutiny in a Sentence

the close scrutiny of data

I'd never faced that kind of scrutiny before.

Because of their past crimes, everything they do now will be subject to scrutiny.

Her opinion is based on a careful scrutiny of the text.

Recent Examples on the Web

While that distribution model has remained unchanged since Blazy’s arrival, the process has come under growing scrutiny as demand for key runway looks often outstrips supply. — Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 5 Oct. 2026

However, the parents soon find themselves under intense scrutiny after they’re accused of abusing their children. — Emlyn Travis, Entertainment Weekly, 5 Oct. 2026

An advisor who welcomes that scrutiny makes the decision easier to assess on its merits. — Christoph Lymbersky, Forbes.com, 5 Oct. 2026

The candidate has also faced additional scrutiny for hosting high-dollar campaign fundraisers at events in California and New York, including with billionaire Democratic donor George Soros. — Ramsey Touchberry, The Washington Examiner, 5 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin scrutinium, from scrutari to search, examine, probably from scruta trash

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing scrutiny

• self-scrutiny
• under scrutiny

Rhymes for scrutiny

• mutiny

Kids Definition

scrutiny

noun

scru·​ti·​ny ˈskrüt-ᵊn-ē 

ˈskrüt-nē

plural scrutinies

: a close inspection : examination

Legal Definition

scrutiny

noun

scru·​ti·​ny ˈskrüt-ᵊn-ē 

plural scrutinies

: searching study or inquiry

specifically : judicial investigation of the constitutionality of a statutory classification of persons under the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution see also intermediate sense 2, strict scrutiny compare rational basis test