Answer: inquisition

AnswerCrossword Clue
inquisitionAn ecclesiastical tribunal established by Pope Gregory IX c.1232 for the suppression of heresy. It was active chiefly in northern Italy and southern France, becoming notorious for the use of torture. In 1542 the papal Inquisition was reestablished to combat Protestantism, eventually becoming an organ of papal government
inquisitionA judicial or official inquiry
inquisitionA period of prolonged and intensive questioning or investigation
inquisitionthe act of inquiring
inquisitionThe verdict or finding of an official inquiry