critical

crit-i-cal · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Expressing adverse or disapproving comments or judgments.

  2. 2.

    Of the greatest importance; crucial.

  3. 3.

    (of a patient) At risk of death; in a life-threatening condition.

  4. 4.

    Involving analysis and evaluation of something.

  5. 5.

    (physics) Relating to or denoting a point of transition.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    critical condition — a life-threatening medical state
  • •
    critical thinking — objective analysis and evaluation
  • •
    critical mass — the minimum amount needed for a reaction
  • •
    critical success — acclaim from critics

Related words

Antonyms: approving, uncritical, unimportant
See also: critic, criticism, criticize, crucial
Synonyms: crucial, disapproving, essential, vital

Etymology

From Latin criticus, from Greek kritikos meaning "able to discern or judge."