1. (v. t.) To examine and judge as a critic; to pass literary or artistic judgment upon; as, to criticize an author; to criticize a picture.

2. (v. t.) To express one's views as to the merit or demerit of; esp., to animadvert upon; to find fault with; as, to criticize conduct.

3. (v. i.) To act as a critic; to pass literary or artistic judgment; to play the critic; -- formerly used with on or upon.

4. (v. i.) To discuss the merits or demerits of a thing or person; esp., to find fault.