from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Criterion \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.
[1913 Webster]
Of the diseases of the mind there is no criterion.
--Donne.
[1913 Webster]
Inferences founded on such enduring criteria. --Sir G.
C. Lewis.
Syn: Standard; measure; rule.
[1913 Webster]