physiognomy
    n 1: the human face (`kisser' and `smiler' and `mug' are
         informal terms for `face' and `phiz' is British) [syn:
         countenance, physiognomy, phiz, visage, kisser,
         smiler, mug]

Physiognomy \Phys`i*og"no*my\ (f[i^]z`[i^]*[o^]g"n[o^]*m[y^];
   277), n.; pl. Physiognomies
   (f[i^]z`[i^]*[o^]g"n[o^]*m[i^]z). [OE. fisonomie, phisonomie,
   fisnamie, OF. phisonomie, F. physiognomie, physiognomonie,
   from Gr. fysiognwmoni`a; fy`sis nature + gnw`mwn one who
   knows or examines, a judge, fr. gnw^mai, gignw`skein, to
   know. See Physic, and Know, and cf. Phiz.]
   1. The art and science of discovering the predominant temper,
      and other characteristic qualities of the mind, by the
      outward appearance, especially by the features of the
      face.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. The face or countenance, especially viewed as an
      indication of the temper of the mind; particular
      configuration, cast, or expression of countenance, as
      denoting character.
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   3. The art telling fortunes by inspection of the features.
      [Obs.] --Bale.
      [1913 Webster]

   4. The general appearance or aspect of a thing, without
      reference to its scientific characteristics; as, the
      physiognomy of a plant, or of a meteor.
      [1913 Webster]

PHYSIOGNOMY, n.  The art of determining the character of another by
the resemblances and differences between his face and our own, which
is the standard of excellence.

    "There is no art," says Shakespeare, foolish man,
        "To read the mind's construction in the face."
    The physiognomists his portrait scan,
        And say:  "How little wisdom here we trace!
    He knew his face disclosed his mind and heart,
    So, in his own defence, denied our art."
                                                         Lavatar Shunk