inspector

noun

in·​spec·​tor in-ˈspek-tər How to pronounce inspector (audio)
Synonyms of inspectornext
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
in-ˈspek-tər-ˌship How to pronounce inspector (audio)
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.
Phoenix completed 16 flights covering 332 miles in about eight hours, while delivering high-resolution video to inspectors in real time. — Yoav Amitai, Forbes.com, 26 Oct. 2026 Finally, quality control inspectors check that the item’s dimensions, color and stated condition match its listing. — Sophie Lou Wilson, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2026 Reilly’s statement said Six Flags has enlisted independent engineers and inspectors to review safety procedures for all rides at its theme parks. — Russ Bynum, Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2026 Here’s your insider rundown on what the inspectors loved at Charlotte’s newest spots in the Michelin Guide — and how to actually get in the door. — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 23 Oct. 2026 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

Phrases Containing inspector

Rhymes for inspector

See All Rhymes for inspector

Browse Nearby Words

inspective
inspector
inspectorate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inspector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inspector. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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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
-ˌship How to pronounce inspector (audio)
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

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