physical examination

noun

: an examination of the bodily functions and condition of an individual

Examples of physical examination in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The president underwent a physical examination at Walter Reed in April 2025. Emily Chang, ABC News, 26 May 2026 Trump's last annual physical examination was in April of last year. Luke Garrett, NPR, 25 May 2026 May 8, 2026 Maybe the most notable charity item came when The Pitt star Noah Wyle joined Stewart on stage to auction off a live physical examination performed on the Hollywood Bowl stage. Kirsten Chuba, HollywoodReporter, 8 May 2026 Perform a physical examination with a focus on the head and neck area. Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 2 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for physical examination

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of physical examination was circa 1884

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Physical examination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physical%20examination. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

physical examination

noun
: an examination of the bodily functions and condition of a person

Medical Definition

physical examination

noun
: an examination of the bodily functions and condition of an individual

More from Merriam-Webster on physical examination

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster