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.

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.

• a standard or test by which individual things or people may be compared and judged
       
• Usage Note: The singular use of criteria is incorrect