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.
Your doctor will likely review your medical history and perform a physical examination to reach a diagnosis. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 11 Sep. 2025 While it can be diagnosed after physical examination, there are no tests to confirm the diagnosis. Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025 Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can involve evaluation of symptoms, physical examination, genetic tests, and amyloid PET scan, as well as ruling out other causes of dementia. Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 6 Aug. 2025 Thanks to a combination of physical examinations and genetic analysis, that hunch has paid off, representing the culmination of a scientific journey that began in 2009. Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Physical examination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physical%20examination. Accessed 20 Sep. 2025.

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

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