inspection

noun

in·​spec·​tion in-ˈspek-shən How to pronounce inspection (audio)
Synonyms of inspectionnext
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
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The companies submitted the request Monday after a criminal indictment accused the operator, Synergy Marine Private Limited, and an employee of failing to comply with maritime safety laws, falsifying inspections, and hiding dangerous conditions on the ship. Jt Moodee Lockman, CBS News, 20 May 2026 But the distance from earth prevents inspection and diagnosis of malfunctioning components, as well as sub-system upgrades or repairs. Aditya Jadhav, Interesting Engineering, 20 May 2026 State inspectors found the room of human remains at Davis Mortuary in August during their first inspection of the facility after state lawmakers beefed up Colorado funeral home regulations in the wake of other, similar scandals. Katie Langford, Denver Post, 20 May 2026 Whereas Gérard could speedily and precisely pick up packages for inspection before moving them along, the robots moved at a slower but methodical pace. Jeremy Hsu, ArsTechnica, 20 May 2026 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 21 May. 2026.

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

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