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.

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inspectorate British  

/ ɪnˈspɛktərɪt /

noun

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

2. a body of inspectors

3. a district under an inspector

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Etymology

Origin of inspectorate

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

Example Sentences

And England's education inspectorate, Ofsted, will give tougher guidance to schools to reduce phone use - including telling staff not to use their devices for personal reasons in front of pupils.

From BBC • Jan. 21, 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

The police inspectorate has concluded the leaders of West Midlands Police fell foul of "confirmation bias".

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

It was then considered by the planning inspectorate but in November 2025 the Welsh government confirmed it would not call the application in.

From BBC • Jan. 7, 2026

They include the militia's general inspectorate; its political council; and directorates relating to firefighting, special guard units, the Bucharest militia, and Bucharest traffic control.

From Area Handbook for Romania by Bernier, Donald W.