Audit

 Definition(s):

Formal inspection and verification to check whether a standard or set of guidelines is being followed, records are accurate, or efficiency and effectiveness targets are being met. Scope Note: May be carried out by internal or external groups.

 Source: ISACA

Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
audit (noun)
1.
a) a formal examination of an organization's or individual's accounts or financial situation
b) the final report of an audit
2.
a methodical examination and review
audit (verb)
transitive verb
1.
to perform an audit of or for - audit the books audit the company
2.
to attend (a course) without working for or expecting to receive formal credit
Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus
audit (noun)
a close look at or over someone or something in order to judge condition
SYNONYMS:
audit, check, checkup, examination, going-over, look-see, review, scan, scrutiny, survey, view
RELATED WORDS:
analysis, assay, close-up, deconstruction, dissection; exploration, investigation, probe, research, study; inquisition, interrogation; once-over, perusal; recheck, reinspection, resurvey; observation, surveillance, watch; checkout, test-drive, trial run
audit (verb)
to look over closely (as for judging quality or condition)
SYNONYMS:
audit, check (out), con, examine, overlook, oversee, review, scan, scrutinize, survey, view
RELATED WORDS:
notice, observe, watch; comb, peruse, pore (over); analyze, dissect, parse; delve (into), explore, investigate, plumb, probe, research, study; categorize, classify; pick over; reinspect, rereview, resurvey
NEAR ANTONYMS:
skim; glance (at over); miss, overlook
An audit is an independent, objective examination and evaluation of financial statements, financial records, and other relevant documents in order to determine the accuracy and reliability of the information provided. It is usually performed by an external auditor or certified public accountant.