(Scrutinium), in the primitive church, an examination or probation practised in the last week of Lent, on the catechumens, who were to receive baptism on the Easter-day. The scrutiny was performed with a great many ceremonies. Exorcisms and prayers were made over the heads of the catechumens; and on Palm Sunday, the Lord's Prayer and Creed were given them, which they were afterwards made to rehearse. This custom was more in use in the church of Rome than anywhere else; though it appears, by some missals, to have been likewise used, though much later, in the Gallican church. It is supposed to have ceased about the year 860. Some traces of this practice still remain at Vienne in Dauphiné, and at Liege.

is also used, in the Canon Law, for a ticket or little paper billet, wherein at elections the electors write their votes privately, so as it may not be known for whom they vote. Among us the term scrutiny is chiefly used for a strict perusal and examination of the several votes hastily taken at an election; in order to find out any irregularities committed therein, by unqualified voters, &c.