criterion

Noun

WordNet 3.0

Noun (2)

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: standard measure touchstone
the ideal in terms of which something can be judged“they live by the standards of their community”Synonyms: standard

Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

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. [1913 Webster]

Of the diseases of the mind there is no criterion. --Donne. [1913 Webster]

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

Syn: Standard; measure; rule. [1913 Webster]