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 agency, however, is facing sweeping budget cuts next year that are expected to impact its inspection capacity. —Meg Anderson, NPR, 17 Dec. 2025

The expedition also conducted a comprehensive inspection of the nuclear submarine K-27 in Stepovoy Bay near Novaya Zemlya. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 17 Dec. 2025

Their logic is open to inspection, their actions traceable and their behaviour aligned with industry norms, not just technical feasibility. —Norbert Jung, Fortune, 17 Dec. 2025

The violations include water waste dumped in city sewage systems, digging without permits and missing environmental inspections. —Stuart Dyos, Nashville Tennessean, 16 Dec. 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