inspect

UK: ɪnˈspekt | US: ɪnˈspekt

Definition

  1. vt. to examine something carefully, especially for flaws or errors

  2. vt. to officially review or evaluate (e.g., a facility or document)

Structure
in <into>spect <look>
Etymology

Derived from Latin inspectare ("to look into"), a frequentative form of inspicere (in- + spicere, variant of specere). The word entered English in the early 17th century, retaining its core sense of close examination. The morphemes reflect a literal action: "looking into" something to assess it.

Examples

  1. The mechanic will inspect the car for any hidden damages.

  2. Health officials inspect restaurants to ensure hygiene standards.

  3. She inspected the document line by line for errors.

  4. The general inspected the troops before the parade.

  5. Customs officers inspect luggage at international airports.