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

• examination
• audit
• scrutiny
• survey

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

Covering the spectrum from White Snow to the blue-black of Inkwell, these neutrals serve as a solid backdrop, though their subtle shifts in undertone invite closer inspection. —Tim Nelson, Architectural Digest, 24 Sep. 2025

Audits and exits Brinkley’s time as interim chief will coincide with the beginning of a department audit and inspection ordered by the city and conducted by an unaffiliated third party organization. —Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 24 Sep. 2025

In an interview, Doble said the process of obtaining a distillery license is a little odd because the facility needs to have all of the stills and equipment ready for inspection before a license is granted. —Angelika Ytuarte, jsonline.com, 24 Sep. 2025

The school also had to pay $55,000 in inspection and damage fees for their air conditioning system, as a result of the incident, per the release. —Escher Walcott, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2025

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

Rhymes for inspection

• abjection
• advection
• affection
• bijection
• bisection
• collection
• complexion
• confection
• connection
• connexion
• convection
• correction

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