ppl. a. [f. SOUL sb. 22.] That searches, examines vigorously or severely, penetrates, etc., the soul.
1612. J. Davies (Heref.), Muse’s Sacrifice, Wks. (Grosart), II. 12/1. Soule-searching Lord, and sole selfe-searching God.
1657. J. Watts, Vind. of Ch. Eng., 210. Discreet Soul-searching and examining discourses.
1663. Aron-bimn., 66. This Kingdom … hath need of such a faithful, soul-searching Ministry as this is.
1807. J. Barlow, Columb., IV. 489. Soul-searching Freedom! here assume thy stand.
a. 1831. Poe, To the River, ii. Poet. Wks. (1853), 134. The beam Of her soul-searching eyes.
1886. W. J. Tucker, E. Europe, 147. His large dark hazel eyes had a penetrating, soul-searching look in them.
