'Criticism' definitions:

Definition of 'criticism'

From: WordNet
noun
Disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings; "the senator received severe criticism from his opponent" [syn: criticism, unfavorable judgment]
noun
A serious examination and judgment of something; "constructive criticism is always appreciated" [syn: criticism, critique]
noun
A written evaluation of a work of literature [syn: criticism, literary criticism]

Definition of 'Criticism'

From: GCIDE
  • Criticism \Crit"i*cism\ (kr?t"?-s?z'm), n.
  • 1. The rules and principles which regulate the practice of the critic; the art of judging with knowledge and propriety of the beauties and faults of a literary performance, or of a production in the fine arts; as, dramatic criticism. [1913 Webster]
  • The elements ofcriticism depend on the two principles of Beauty and Truth, one of which is the final end or object of study in every one of its pursuits: Beauty, in letters and the arts; Truth, in history and sciences. --Brande & C. [1913 Webster]
  • By criticism, as it was first instituted by Aristotle, was meant a standard of judging well. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. The act of criticising; a critical judgment passed or expressed; a critical observation or detailed examination and review; a critique; animadversion; censure. [1913 Webster]
  • About the plan of "Rasselas" little was said by the critics; and yet the faults of the plan might seem to invite severe criticism. --Macaulay. [1913 Webster]