inspection
    n 1: a formal or official examination; "the platoon stood ready
         for review"; "we had to wait for the inspection before we
         could use the elevator" [syn: inspection, review]

Inspection \In*spec"tion\, n. [L. inspectio: cf. F. inspection.]
   1. The act or process of inspecting or looking at carefully;
      a strict or prying examination; close or careful scrutiny;
      investigation. --Spenser.
      [1913 Webster]

            With narrow search, and with inspection deep,
            Considered every creature.            --Milton.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. The act of overseeing; official examination or
      superintendence.
      [1913 Webster]

   Trial by inspection (O. Eng. Law), a mode of trial in which
      the case was settled by the individual observation and
      decision of the judge upon the testimony of his own
      senses, without the intervention of a jury. --Abbott.
      [1913 Webster]

inspection

    A formal evaluation technique in which software
   requirements, design, or code are examined in detail by a
   person or group other than the author to detect faults,
   violations of development standards, and other problems.

   (1996-05-22)

INSPECTION, comm. law. The examination of certain articles made by law 
subject to such examination, so that they may be declared fit for commerce. 
The decision of the inspectors is not final; the object' of the law is to 
protect the community from fraud, and to preserve the character of the 
merchandise abroad. 8 Cowen, R. 45. See 1 John. 205; 13 John. R. 331; 2 
Caines, R. 312; 3 Caines, R. 207. 

INSPECTION, practice. Examination. 2. The inspection of all public records 
is free to all persons who have an interest in them, upon payment of the 
usual fees. 7 Mod. 129; 1 Str. 304; 2 Str. 260, 954, 1005. But it seems a 
mere stranger who has no such interest, has no right, at common law. 8 T. R. 
390. Vide Trial by inspection.