n. Close investigation or examination; minute inquiry; critical examination.n. Specificallyn. In the early church, the examination in Lent of catechumens, including instruction in and questions upon the creed, accompanied with prayers, exorcisms, and other ceremonies, prior to their baptism on Easter day.n. One of the three methods used in the Roman Catholic Church for electing a Pope.n. In canon law, a ticket or little paper billet on which a vote is written.n. An examination by a competent authority of the votes given or ballots east at an election, for the purpose of rejecting those that are vitiated or imperfect, and thus correcting the poll.n. Synonyms Investigation, Inspection, etc. (see examination), sifting. See search, v.To scrutinize.