physical examination

American  

noun

1. an examination, usually by a physician, of a person's body in order to determine the person's state of health or physical fitness, such as for military service or participation in a sport.

---

physical examination British  

noun

1. med the process of examining the body by means of sight, touch, percussion, or auscultation to diagnose disease or verify fitness

---

Etymology

Origin of physical examination

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The White House memorandum describing President Trump’s recent physical examination lacks details of the results of tests to assess his cardiovascular health, according to physicians who read the report.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

The three-page memo provides an overview of Trump's physical examination and diagnostic testing, in which Barbabella concludes that the leader is "fully fit to carry out all duties of the Commander-in-Chief and Head of State."

From Barron's • May 30, 2026

An annual physical examination may not pick up early signs of dementia.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 2, 2026

It said it was "very concerned" by the findings, stressing that Botox prescriptions always require a physical examination and that enforcement action would follow where standards were not met.

From BBC • Sep. 29, 2025

I will need a letter from the parish priest and a physical examination by my family doctor.

From "Angela's Ashes: A Memoir" by Frank McCourt