inspectorate

American  

[in-spek-ter-it] / ɪnˈspɛk tər ɪt /

noun

1. the office or function of an inspector.

2. a body of inspectors.

3. a district under an inspector.

---

inspectorate British  

/ ɪnˈspɛktərɪt /

noun

1. the office, rank, or duties of an inspector

2. a body of inspectors

3. a district under an inspector

---

Etymology

Origin of inspectorate

First recorded in 1755–65; inspector + -ate ³

Example Sentences

At primary school level, the situation has been described as "buoyant" overall by inspectorate Estyn, though filling Welsh medium places "is still a concern".

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Givan also said the school inspectorate would monitor how RE was being taught in schools.

From BBC • Feb. 3, 2026

"Where a police force is failing the public, there must be a clear, fair system to make sure concerns are acted upon. The inspectorate is a vital part of that system," he said.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2026

This practice is expected to change under new legislation as part of the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, with the inspectorate given stronger powers to impose fines on the unregistered homes.

From BBC • Jan. 16, 2026

This council is usually recruited from the ranks of directors of training colleges and from the inspectorate.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 8, Slice 10 "Echinoderma" to "Edward" by Various