Word – Physiognomy
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Physiognomy – Word of the Day
Meaning:
- (noun) A person’s facial features or expression, especially when regarded as indicative of character or ethnic origin.
- (noun) Physiognomy is the practice of determining a person’s character or personality from their outer appearance—especially the face.
- (noun) The general form or appearance of something.
Fun fact: Sometimes, physiognomy can also be referred to as anthroposcopy, though the expression was more common in the 19th century when the word originated.
Origin:
Physiognomy comes from the Greek word physiognomia, which means “the judging of a person’s nature by his features”.
Examples:
- Dan and his father have the same physiognomy.
- Her friends began to notice a change in her physiognomy.
- The Nazis used pseudo-scientific studies in the field of physiognomy to assert the status of Germans as the master race.
- Some plastic surgeons are studying the art of physiognomy so that they can better serve their clients.
- The nineteenth century was the golden age of physiognomy.
- The chemotherapy procedure had entirely transformed his physiognomy.
- The change in physiognomy of the Patagonian landscape was so fast that the Ministry of Environment was worried.
- Winston possessed all the physiognomy of an untrustworthy person. There was no way she could marry him.
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Janice Thompson

Janice Thompson
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