physiognomy

English

Etymology

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”).

Noun

Wikipedia physiognomy (uncountable)

1. The art and science of discovering the predominant temper, and other characteristic qualities of the mind, by the outward appearance, especially by the features of the face.
2. The face or countenance, with respect to the temper of the mind; particular configuration, cast, or expression of countenance, as denoting character.
3. The art of telling fortunes by inspection of the features.
4. 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

• See also Wikisaurus:countenance

Related terms

• physiognomist

Translations

art of judging on the character or personality from the bodily appearance

Czech: fyziognomie (cs) f. French: physiognomonie (fr) f. German: Physiognomie (de) f.

Greek: φυσιογνωμονική (el) (fysiognomonikí) f. Russian: физиогномика (ru) f.