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

SpaceX’s financial statements, now open to inspection after the company went public earlier this year, shine a light on this fact. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2026

But for category 1, 2 and 3 hurricanes, there are certainly some ways to stop preventable storm damage in its tracks, starting with tree trimming and roof flashing inspections. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026

State law treats board meeting minutes as association records available for member inspection but excludes minutes and other information from executive sessions. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 10 Sep. 2026

The Florida Department of Health closed Bucky Dent after an inspection found 34 violations across 27 categories, just days after the city celebrated the facility’s reopening following more than a year of construction. — Veronica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 9 Sep. 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