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 new hires were also required to do a complete physical examination. — Wilbert L. Cooper, Longreads, 25 Aug. 2026 Health care workers should sanitize their hands before and after patient contact regardless of whether that contact involves a handshake, a physical examination, or a procedure. — Zain Khawaja, STAT, 24 Aug. 2026 Over time, your symptoms and physical examination findings may begin to fit one of these diagnoses more than the others. — Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 15 Aug. 2026 There was no autopsy — only a physical examination that showed no evidence of defensive wounds or assault. — Caitlin McGlade, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 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

Rhymes for physical examination

See All Rhymes for physical examination

Browse Nearby Words

physical environment
physical examination
physical fitness
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Cite this Entry

“Physical examination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physical%20examination. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about physical examination

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