Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Criterion \Cri*te"ri*on\ (kr?-t?"r?-?n), n.; pl. {Criteria}
   (-?), sometimes {Criterions} (-?nz). [Gr. ????? a means for
   judging, fr. ???? decider, judge, fr. ????? to separate. See
   {Certain}.]
   A standard of judging; any approved or established rule or
   test, by which facts, principles opinions, and conduct are
   tried in forming a correct judgment respecting them.

         Of the diseases of the mind there is no criterion.
                                                  --Donne.

         Inferences founded on such enduring criteria. --Sir G.
                                                  C. Lewis.

   Syn: Standard; measure; rule.

Source : WordNet®

criteria
     See {criterion}

criterion
     n 1: a basis for comparison; a reference point against which
          other things can be evaluated; "they set the measure for
          all subsequent work" [syn: {standard}, {measure}, {touchstone}]
     2: the ideal in terms of which something can be judged; "they
        live by the standards of their community" [syn: {standard}]
     [also: {criteria} (pl)]