Inquisition (noun)

1. A formal investigation, especially one conducted with harsh methods or for political or religious reasons.
2. An institution or organization for conducting such investigations.

Origin:

From the latin word "inquisitio" which means "inquiry" or "investigation".

Examples:

1. He was put on trial by the inquisition.
2. The inquisition was a period of time in which the Catholic Church used harsh methods to investigate and punish heresy.
3. He was afraid of being captured by the inquisition.
4. The inquisition was known for its brutal tactics to extract confessions.
5. The inquisition was an institution that used torture to extract information from its prisoners.