Dictionary entry

Criterion

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Cri‐te″ri‐on (kr?–t?″r?–?n), n.; pl.Criteria (-�), sometimes Criterions (–�nz). [Gr. ����� a means for judging, fr. ���� decider, judge, fr. ����� to separate. See Certain.] A standard of judging; any approved or established rule or test, by which facts, principles opinions, and conduct are tried in forming a correct judgment respecting them.

Of the diseases of the mind there is no criterion.

Donne.

Inferences founded on such enduring criteria.

Sir G. C. Lewis.

Syn. — Standard; measure; rule.