di|ag|no|sis

di|ag|no|sis «_DY uhg NOH sihs», noun, plural -ses «-seez».

1. a) the act or process of finding out what disease a person or animal has by examination and careful study of the symptoms: »

The doctor used X rays and blood samples in his diagnosis.

b) the opinion resulting from such investigation: »

To most people, a tuberculosis diagnosis comes as an enormous emotional shock (Newsweek).

2. Figurative. a) a careful study of the facts about something to find out its essential features, faults, or other characteristics: »

The engineers made a complete diagnosis of the plane crash by examining the parts for defective workmanship.

b) a decision reached after a careful study of symptoms or facts: »

The diagnosis blamed the collapse of the bridge on faulty construction.

3. Biology. a statement of the determining characteristics, as of a genus or species.

╂[< Greek diágnōsis a discerning, distinguishing < diá- apart, through + gnôsis inquiry, investigation < gign (learn to) know]