inspection

noun

in·​spec·​tion in-ˈspek-shən How to pronounce inspection (audio)
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

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
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.
Though an agreement was made in March of 2021 to extend the treaty, after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022 and Russia’s subsequent refusal to submit to on-site inspections several months later, Moscow officially stopped participating in the treaty the following February. Natasha Lindstaedt, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025 While the district passed a resolution authorizing the property acquisition last week, the district must complete a survey and site inspection costing up to $10,000 before closing. Olivia Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2025 Quotas for onsite inspections have risen from 5% to 20% of applicants. Niamh Rowe, Quartz, 28 May 2025 The South Florida Sun Sentinel typically highlights restaurant inspections conducted by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation in Broward and Palm Beach counties. Kari Barnett, Sun Sentinel, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for inspection

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of inspection was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inspection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inspection. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

inspection

noun
in·​spec·​tion in-ˈspek-shən How to pronounce inspection (audio)
: the act or an instance of inspecting

Medical Definition

inspection

noun
in·​spec·​tion in-ˈspek-shən How to pronounce inspection (audio)
: visual observation of the body in the course of a medical examination compare palpation sense 2
inspect 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

More from Merriam-Webster on inspection

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