inspection

noun

in·​spec·​tion in-ˈspek-shən 

1

a

: the act of inspecting

b

: recognition of a familiar pattern leading to immediate solution of a mathematical problem

solve an equation by inspection

2

: a checking or testing of an individual against established standards

Synonyms

• audit
• check
• checkup
• examination
• going-over
• look-see
• review
• scan
• scrutiny
• survey
• view

Examples of inspection in a Sentence

Close inspection of the candles revealed some small defects.

Regular inspections are required of all restaurants in the area.

The barracks are ready for inspection.

Recent Examples on the Web

Holdups include environmental inspections to ensure the properties are safe, and customary searches by cadaver dogs, though no missing people have been reported, Fryhoff said. —Dennis Romero, NBC News, 9 Nov. 2024

Spot, their quadruped robot, is already being used for industrial inspections, construction site monitoring, and safety operations, showcasing the versatility of robots in challenging environments. —Amir Husain, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

Sometimes, traffickers stain ivory to look like wood or coat it in chocolate to make it through inspections. —Ashley Strickland, CNN, 2 Nov. 2024

This is the kind of execution that’s been honed in time to show restraint, while rewarding inspection. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing inspection

• inspection arms
• on closer inspection
• tour of inspection

Kids Definition

inspection

noun

in·​spec·​tion in-ˈspek-shən 

: the act or an instance of inspecting

Medical Definition

inspection

noun

in·​spec·​tion in-ˈspek-shən 

: visual observation of the body in the course of a medical examination compare palpation sense 2

inspect

in-ˈspekt 

verb

Legal Definition

inspection

noun

in·​spec·​tion

: a careful and critical examination: as

a

: a buyer's examination of goods prior to payment or acceptance especially in accordance with section 2-513 of the Uniform Commercial Code

b

: an examination of articles of commerce to determine their fitness for transportation or sale

c

: an investigation of an applicant for insurance

d

: an examination or survey of a community, of premises, of a facility, or of a vehicle by an authorized person (as to determine compliance with regulations or susceptibility to fire or other hazards)

specifically : administrative search at search

e

: examination of documents, things, or property for purposes of making discovery for trial