'inspect' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inspectare,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'spectare' meant 'to look at.'

'inspectare' transformed into the Old French word 'inspecter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inspect' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to look into or examine closely,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.