vetting

American  

[vet-ing] / ˈvɛt ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act or process of appraising or checking a person or thing for suitability, accuracy, or validity.

   The quality of a competitive jazz festival is contingent upon the vetting and hiring of experienced judges, which must be done far in advance.

2. the act or process of examining or treating an animal in one’s capacity as a veterinarian.

   At this shelter we are passionately dedicated to the rescue, vetting, and homing of orphaned pets.

3. the occupation or work of a veterinarian.

   After 30 years of vetting, I sometimes struggle through my morning consults just to collapse in a chair before my afternoon surgery list.

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adjective

1. appraising, verifying, or checking something.

   The appointing authority (the Executive) and the vetting institution (Parliament) should scrutinize appointments so only those with the needed skills are appointed to diplomatic posts.

Etymology

Origin of vetting

First recorded in 1885–90; vet ¹ + -ing ¹ for the noun senses; vet ¹ + -ing ² for the adjective sense

Example Sentences

Sir Olly told MPs he was right not to share this in order to protect the integrity of the vetting system.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Sir Keir Starmer has said it is "incredible" he was not informed about the result of the vetting assessment.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

Along with the restructuring, Suzman said he has commissioned an external review related to the foundation’s engagement with Epstein and policies for vetting and developing new philanthropic partnerships.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

Sir Olly also argued that telling the prime minister about any details of the vetting, other than the outcome of the process, was against the rules.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

In vetting him for the job, his trainer neglected to look at his sister, a local basketball phenom.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand