Definition of criterion

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< cristate

critic >

cri·te·ri·on    (kr-tîr-n) KEY 

NOUN:
pl. cri·te·ri·a  (-tîr-) KEY  or cri·te·ri·ons

A standard, rule, or test on which a judgment or decision can be based. See Synonyms at standard.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Greek kritrion, from krits, judge, from krnein, to separate, judge; see krei- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
cri·teri·al  (-l) KEY (Adjective)
Usage Note:
Like the analogous etymological plurals agenda and data, criteria is widely used as a singular form. Unlike them, however, it is not yet acceptable in that use.