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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of physical examination

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

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

From MarketWatch • Jan. 2, 2026

In 2014, he said, the Rays signed closer Grant Balfour: two years and $12 million — after the Baltimore Orioles withdrew a two-year, $15-million deal following a physical examination.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 13, 2025

"Our guidance is also clear that when providing non-surgical cosmetic medical products such as Botox, there needs to be a physical examination of the person to support a safe prescribing decision," she said.

From BBC • Oct. 13, 2025

At each follow-up visit, data collection included a physical examination, lifestyle-related questionnaires, blood sampling, and, starting in 1991, neurocognitive testing.

From Science Daily • Mar. 14, 2024

The physical examination was not as extensive as the first.

From "The Underground Railroad: A Novel" by Colson Whitehead