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

It emerged his department had given Lord Mandelson security clearance for the top diplomatic job in January 2025, despite concerns being raised during the vetting process.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

The prime minister effectively sacked Sir Olly last week, expressing anger that the Foreign Office had not told him that Lord Mandelson failed security vetting.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Having only started in the role two weeks before security clearance was granted, Sir Olly said his predecessor had briefed him that Downing Street felt vetting "might be unnecessary" for someone of Mandelson's status.

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

The competition to lead the Review was ferocious every year, involving rigorous vetting and a vote by eighty student editors.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama