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.
The regular inspections include restaurants, taverns, grocery stores, meat markets and bakeries. Ashley Fredde, Idaho Statesman, 23 Apr. 2025 However, those areas were closed again on April 7 after failing another inspection. Stephanie Lam, Mercury News, 23 Apr. 2025 Since then, Kluge has failed a subsequent inspection and faces two additional citations for his dogs escaping and inciting fear in neighbors. Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 23 Apr. 2025 To search the restaurant inspections, type in a keyword or restaurant name. Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Apr. 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 2 May. 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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