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 of inspection

• 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

The full inspections show how each establishment has corrected or is working to correct any remaining violations. —Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 11 Apr. 2026

Placing crews in strategic locations before power shutoffs, using drones and helicopters and exploring ways to automate line inspections can help speed up restoration of electricity after wind storms are over. —Judith Kohler, Denver Post, 10 Apr. 2026

These are typically corrected or mitigated during the inspection, according to the Sacramento County Retail Food Inspection Guide. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado april 10, Sacbee.com, 10 Apr. 2026

Zoo staff discovered the wolf was missing Wednesday during a routine morning inspection. —Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2026

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