examinations
|ex-am-i-na-tions|
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/ɪɡˌzæməˈneɪʃənz/
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/ɪɡˌzæmɪˈneɪʃ(ə)nz/
(examination)
detailed inspection or test
Etymology
'examination' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'examinatio' (from 'examinare'), where 'ex-' meant 'out of' or 'from' and 'examin-' (from 'examen') meant 'a weighing, test or result'.
'examination' changed from Latin 'examinatio' into Old French 'examination' and Middle English 'examinacioun', and eventually became the modern English word 'examination'.
Initially it meant 'a weighing or balance (a test to determine weight/result)'; over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'a formal test, inspection, or investigation'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a formal test of a person's knowledge or proficiency in a subject or skill (usually at school, university, or for professional qualification).
The students are preparing for their examinations next month.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a medical check or series of checks performed by a doctor to assess someone's health.
He had several medical examinations after the accident.
Synonyms
Noun 3
a detailed inspection or investigation of something to assess its condition or quality.
The building underwent safety examinations before reopening.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 4
the act of questioning a witness, especially in court (often used with a qualifier, e.g., cross-examination).
The witness faced difficult examinations from the defense counsel.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/18 13:43