criterion meaning and definition

CRITERION noun

Definition of criterion (noun)

1. a basis for comparison; a reference point against which other things can be evaluated
   • "the schools comply with federal standards"; "they set the measure for all subsequent work"
   • synonyms: measure, standard, touchstone
2. the ideal in terms of which something can be judged
   • "they live by the standards of their community"
   • synonyms: standard