inspector

noun

in·​spec·​tor in-ˈspek-tər How to pronounce inspector (audio)
1
: a person employed to inspect something
2
a
: a police officer who is in charge of usually several precincts and ranks below a superintendent or deputy superintendent
b
: a person appointed to oversee a polling place
inspectorship noun

Examples of inspector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Michelin Guide top hotels Michelin’s inspectors evaluate hotels via anonymous stays or visits, according to the company’s website. Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 9 Oct. 2025 The inspector noticed raw eggs and beef stored above the produce, organic matter on the ice chute and ice maker door, and rodent droppings in the dry storage area. Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Oct. 2025 The company’s inspectors carry out regular and thorough checks on the workshops selected and employed by Tod’s. Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025 What Happens Next FDA inspectors will classify the recall one of three hazard levels, from the lowest risk, Class III, to the highest, Class I. News Editor, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inspector

Word History

First Known Use

1602, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inspector was in 1602

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inspector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inspector. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

inspector

noun
in·​spec·​tor in-ˈspek-tər How to pronounce inspector (audio)
1
: a person who makes inspections
meat inspector
2
: a police officer ranking just below a superintendent or deputy superintendent
inspectorship noun

Legal Definition

inspector

noun
in·​spec·​tor
1
: a person employed or authorized to inspect something
2
: a police officer in charge of a number of precincts and ranking below a superintendent or deputy superintendent

More from Merriam-Webster on inspector

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