physiognomics
/ˌfɪzɪəˈnɒmɪks/Now chiefly historical
noun
Originally: †facial or physical characteristics taken as indicative of character, personality, etc. (obsolete ). Later: the art or practice of judging character from facial or physical characteristics.
Origin
Early 18th century; earliest use found in John Harris (c1666–1719), writer and lecturer on science. From physiognomic: see -ic.