physiognomic

adjective

phys·​i·​og·​nom·​ic ˌfi-zē-ə(g)-ˈnä-mik How to pronounce physiognomic (audio)
variants or less commonly physiognomical
ˌfi-zē-ə(g)-ˈnä-mi-kəl How to pronounce physiognomic (audio)
: of, relating to, or characteristic of physiognomy or the physiognomy
physiognomically
ˌfi-zē-ə(g)-ˈnä-mi-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce physiognomic (audio)
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.
Technical fabrics and physiognomic design took precedence over flair. — Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 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

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of physiognomic was in 1577

Rhymes for physiognomic

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Browse Nearby Words

physiogenic
physiognomic
physiognomics
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Cite this Entry

“Physiognomic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physiognomic. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

physiognomic

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