Meaning of the word inquisitor in English

What does inquisitor mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

inquisitor

US /ɪnˈkwɪz.ɪ.t̬ɚ/
UK /ɪnˈkwɪz.ɪ.tər/

Noun

1.

a person making an inquiry or investigation, especially one who is harsh or ruthless

Example:
The detective acted as a relentless inquisitor, questioning every detail of the suspect's story.
During the job interview, the manager became a stern inquisitor, probing into my past experiences.
2.

(historical) an official of the ecclesiastical court of the Inquisition

Example:
The historical records describe the harsh methods used by the inquisitor during the Spanish Inquisition.
The accused faced a panel of stern inquisitors who sought to uncover heresy.