-tə(r) noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin, from inspectus (past participle of inspicere to inspect) + -or — more at inspect
1. : one that inspects or makes an inspection ; especially : a person employed to inspect something (as the work of others, goods imported, the state and hazards of buildings) — often used in combination
customs inspector
fire inspector
— see mine inspector
2. : one that oversees or supervises: as
a. : a police officer in charge of a number of precincts and ranking below a superintendent or deputy superintendent
b. : a person appointed to oversee the conduct of an election (as with respect to the provisions of law and propriety)