DictionaryvetCheck suitability
verb

vet

To examine someone or something carefully before approval.

The company vets all applicants before offering them jobs.

Etymology

Vet developed from the veterinarian's examination of an animal. The verb broadened to careful checking of people, documents, or proposals before acceptance.

More examples

  • A lawyer vetted the contract before we signed it.
  • We are vetting potential suppliers for quality and reliability.
  • The editor asks us to vet each source before publication.

Forms

vet · vets · vetted · vetting

Similar words

screen
Often means an initial check to eliminate unsuitable candidates.
scrutinize
Emphasizes close examination, without necessarily leading to approval.
review
Means examining or reconsidering something, not necessarily checking suitability.