Exam

Definition

Exam is a noun that refers to a formal test or assessment designed to measure knowledge, skills, or abilities in a particular subject or field. It is commonly used in educational and professional contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzæm/
• Respelling: ig-ZAM

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzæm/
• Respelling: ig-ZAM

Etymology

The word "exam" is a shortened form of "examination," which originates from the Latin "examinare," meaning "to weigh" or "to test." It entered English in the 14th century as "examination," referring to the process of assessment or scrutiny, and was later shortened to "exam" in informal use.

Derivatives

• Examination (noun)
• Examine (verb)
• Examiner (noun)
• Pre-exam (noun)
• Mock exam (noun)

Synonyms

• Test
• Assessment
• Evaluation

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "exam" is widely used in educational and certification contexts to refer to structured tests for measuring a person's knowledge or skill. For example, "She studied all night for her math exam." It is also used in professional settings, such as "He passed the bar exam to become a lawyer."

Related Terms

• Quiz: A short test, usually less formal than an exam.
• Certification: A formal assessment required to obtain a credential.
• Review: The process of going over material in preparation for an exam.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A formal test of knowledge or skill: Refers to a structured assessment designed to measure understanding or capability.
  • Example: "The final exam covered all the topics from the semester."
• An official evaluation for certification or licensure: Often used to refer to tests required for professional qualification.
  • Example: "He took the medical licensing exam last month."