physiognomic

adjective

phys·​i·​og·​nom·​ic ˌfi-zē-ə(g)-ˈnä-mik How to pronounce physiognomic (audio)
variants or less commonly physiognomical
: of, relating to, or characteristic of physiognomy or the physiognomy
physiognomically adverb

Examples of physiognomic 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.
In the late 19th century, it was commonly believed that a criminal or lunatic could be recognized at a glance, based on certain physiognomic tells. Adam Kirsch, The Atlantic, 15 June 2026 Technical fabrics and physiognomic design took precedence over flair. Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 The camera’s interest in Killian is a physiognomic interest. Doreen St. Félix, New Yorker, 5 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of physiognomic was in 1577

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Cite this Entry

“Physiognomic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physiognomic. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

Medical Definition

physiognomic

adjective
phys·​i·​og·​nom·​ic ˌfiz-ē-ə(g)-ˈnäm-ik How to pronounce physiognomic (audio)
variants also physiognomical
: of, relating to, or characteristic of physiognomy or the physiognomy
physiognomically adverb
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