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

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

On that, the head of the police inspectorate is unequivocal in his report, writing: "I don't accept this."

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

The BBC obtained a letter from the Dutch police inspectorate in December, which appears to contradict claims made by the West Midlands force about Maccabi fans' previous behaviour.

From BBC • Jan. 6, 2026

After announcing that the old system would be scrapped, the inspectorate said it would be replaced by the new report cards, which would be subject to a consultation period.

From BBC • Nov. 10, 2025

Morse, commissioner of customs and statistical secretary in the inspectorate general of customs, drew up the following table based on the amounts presumed to be paid by the tax payer:—   ImperialAdministration.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 2 "Chicago, University of" to "Chiton" by Various