Strict, close, rigorous; painstaking, careful. Obsolete.

Having a penetrating effect, typically unpleasantly or uncomfortably so. Of a question: intended to uncover or find out the truth about someone or…

Of examination, attention, etc.: Directed strictly and closely to the subject of consideration; strict, minute, searching.

figurative. Penetrating deep down. rare.

(a) a small-tooth comb; usually in figurative use; also attributive and as v. transitive, to investigate minutely; cf. fine-tooth, adj.; (b) Zoology…