English Reference

Word

vetting

Phoneticsvet·ting, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈvɛtɪŋ/

UK/vˈɛtɪŋ/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. the process of checking someone's background or a piece of information very carefully. You do this to make sure a person is honest and suitable for a job.

n. the process of performing a thorough background check or investigation on a person or entity. Often involves verifying credentials, history, and character to ensure suitability for a position of trust.

Examples

“The new employee is still undergoing vetting.”

“After a rigorous vetting process, the committee finally approved the candidate for the high-level security role.”

“The vetting of potential political candidates has become increasingly public, as social media archives are now routinely scrutinized for any evidence of past indiscretions or controversial affiliations.”

Examples

simple

“The new employee is still undergoing vetting.”

contextual

“After a rigorous vetting process, the committee finally approved the candidate for the high-level security role.”

complex

“The vetting of potential political candidates has become increasingly public, as social media archives are now routinely scrutinized for any evidence of past indiscretions or controversial affiliations.”

Usage

Often appears as a gerund noun; frequently paired with adjectives like 'rigorous', 'thorough', or 'extensive'.

Real-World Examples

“She replaces Sir Olly Robbins, who was sacked by former prime minister Keir Starmer over Lord Peter Mandelson’s security vetting.”
The Guardian 10 Sept 2026
“Robbins was dismissed from his post by Starmer after the then prime minister said he did not feel he had been given the whole picture about Mandelson’s failure to pass vetting.”
The Guardian 10 Sept 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference