the process of examining the body by means of sight, touch, percussion, or auscultation to diagnose disease or verify fitness
physical examination in American English
noun
an examination, usually by a physician, of a person's body in order to determine his or her state of health or physical fitness, as for military service or participation in a sport
Word origin
[1880–85]This word is first recorded in the period 1880–85. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: automatism, impressionism, irredentist, pari-mutuel, quotation mark
Examples of 'physical examination' in a sentence
physical examination
A full physical examination should be carried out.
MacIntyre, Anne M. E. Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome - How To Live With It (1989)
The diagnostic process involves information gathering via clinical history, physical examination and diagnostic testing.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
Knowledge of clinical history and physical examination of the patient are equally important.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
I was not about to involuntarily submit to a physical examination by this character.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
After concluding a physical examination, the doctor took out a clipboard.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
On physical examination, his blood pressure was 90/60 and pulse 60/minute.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
Physical examination, chromosome testing and androgen testing have all been tried - but what of the effect on the athlete's self-worth and identity?
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
So what replaced the physical examination?
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
The study participants also underwent a physical examination and answered questions regarding symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
No physical examination was performed.
Times, Sunday Times (2018)
They are being subjected by the coaches to an extreme physical examination designed to expose any flaws and to improve technique.