What is physiognomy? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of physiognomy in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of physiognomy

physiognomynoun
Physiognomy
/ˌfɪziˈɒnəmi//ˌfɪziˈɑːnəmi/

Where does the word physiognomy come from?

The word "physiognomy" derives from the Greek words "physis," which means nature, and "gnomon," which means judge or discern. In ancient times, physiognomy was a pseudoscientific belief that associates physical features, such as facial expressions, shapes, and size, with an individual's character or personality. It suggests that the outer appearance of a person reveals their inner nature or personality. The concept of physiognomy was popular during the 18th and 19th centuries, but it is now widely recognized as a discredited and inaccurate theory in modern psychology and science.

Vocabulary summary physiognomy

type noun

meaning palmistry

meaning face, facial expression, appearance

meaning face (of country, thing...)

Example of vocabulary physiognomynamespace

The suspect's physiognomy, with its strong jawline and piercing stare, gave the detective a chilling suspicion of their true character.
The sculptor devoted years to perfecting their understanding of physiognomy, studying the lines and features of the human face to create life-like and soulful portraits.
Some people believe that physiognomy is the key to understanding a person's personality, claiming that features such as a prominent forehead or sunken brow reveal hidden traits.
The physiognomist's analysis of the criminal's face and gestures provided the evidence needed to solve the high-profile case.
In the olden days, many doctors believed in the mystical power of physiognomy, advising their patients to alter their appearance to fit their perceived persona.