physiognomy
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Contents |
English [edit]
Alternative forms [edit]
Etymology [edit]
From Anglo-Norman phisenomie, Middle French phisonomie et al., and their source, Late Latin physiognomia, from Ancient Greek φυσιογνωμονία (“the science or art of judging a man by his features”), from φύσις (“physique, appearance”) + γνώμων (“one that knows or examines, an interpreter, discerner”).
Pronunciation [edit]
Noun [edit]
physiognomy (uncountable)
- The art or pseudoscience of deducing the predominant temper and other characteristic qualities of the mind from the outward appearance, especially from the features of the face.
- The face or countenance, with respect to the temper of the mind; particular configuration, cast, or expression of countenance, as denoting character.
- The art of telling fortunes by inspection of the features.
- The general appearance or aspect of a thing, without reference to its scientific characteristics; as, the physiognomy of a plant, or of a meteor.
Synonyms [edit]
- See also Wikisaurus:countenance
Related terms [edit]
Translations [edit]
art or pseudoscience of deducing the character or personality from the bodily appearance
|
|
