criterion Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a basis for comparison; a reference point against which other things can be evaluated
measure; touchstone; standard.
- the schools comply with federal standards
- they set the measure for all subsequent work
noun the ideal in terms of which something can be judged
standard.
- they live by the standards of their community

Gr. a means for judging, fr. decider, judge, fr. to separate. See Certain.

plural Criteria (-), sometimes Criterions

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.