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Definition of exam

exam

/ɪɡˈzæm/
ex · am
Plural:exams
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exam Lexical Profile

exam Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A formal written, spoken, or practical test to assess a person's knowledge, skills, or aptitude in a specific subject.

Example

"She spent the entire weekend studying for her final biology exam."

2

A detailed medical inspection or physical investigation of a patient's body to diagnose or monitor a condition.

Example

"The doctor performed a routine physical exam to ensure the patient was in good health."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for exam

• Rhymes for exam

• Nearby Words

exaltation
exalted
exaltedness
exam
examinable
examination
examine

Word Origin & Etymology

A late 19th-century clipping of 'examination', which traces back to Latin 'examinatio', from 'examinare' (to weigh or test).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Exam. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/exam
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