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

• audit
• check
• checkup
• examination
• going-over
• look-see
• review
• scan
• scrutiny
• survey
• view

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 recall follows an FDA inspection that revealed undeclared allergens on the product labels. —David Faris, Newsweek, 19 Jan. 2025

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment’s Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, the Division of Oil and Public Safety, and the Mine Training and Safety Program concluded their safety inspection of the mine last month, according to a final report released Thursday. —Thao Nguyen, USA TODAY, 17 Jan. 2025

Airlines have also had to pull Airbus jets from service to carry out unexpected inspections of Pratt & Whitney engines after the engine manufacturer discovered a quality defect. —Niraj Chokshi, New York Times, 17 Jan. 2025

In the months leading up to the Eaton fire, state officials criticized Southern California Edison over its inspections of electric lines in high-fire-risk areas, The Times’ Melody Petersen and Jenny Jarvie report. —Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 16 Jan. 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

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