Inquisitor

An inquisitor is a person who investigates, questions, or examines someone, often in a harsh or relentless manner, especially in an official capacity, to uncover the truth, determine guilt, or assess beliefs. Historically, the term is most associated with the officials of the Inquisition, a tribunal of the Catholic Church that investigated and punished heresy. However, the term can also be used more broadly to describe anyone who conducts a rigorous and often probing investigation. An inquisitor is characterized by their dedication to obtaining answers, even if through uncomfortable or intimidating methods. This relentless pursuit of information can sometimes border on the adversarial, leading to pressure or intimidation of the subject.

Inquisitor meaning with examples

• During the tense interrogation, the lead detective, a seasoned inquisitor, relentlessly questioned the suspect about his whereabouts on the night of the crime. His intense focus and sharp questioning style were designed to expose any inconsistencies in the suspect's story and force him to reveal the truth.
• The journalist, acting as an inquisitor, meticulously researched the company's controversial practices, publishing a series of articles that exposed a pattern of unethical behavior. His in-depth investigations and detailed reporting held those responsible accountable for their actions.
• In the dystopian novel, the regime employed skilled inquisitors to root out dissent and enforce ideological conformity. Those accused of expressing unorthodox views faced grueling interrogations and forced confessions, highlighting the brutality of totalitarian rule.
• The professor, playing the role of a rigorous academic inquisitor, challenged every assertion in the student's thesis with pointed questions and critical analysis, pushing the student to defend her arguments with stronger evidence and critical thinking.