criterion-based

the word is a modern english compound adjective, formed by combining the noun 'criterion' with the past participle 'based'. 'criterion' itself originates from ancient greek kritērion, derived from krinein meaning 'to decide, judge', which carries the core idea of a standard used for making judgments. the second element, 'based', comes from the latin basis (foundation, pedestal), which entered english via old french. when combined, the term literally means 'founded upon a standard for judgment', logically evolving to describe any method, decision, or system that is guided by established criteria.

Structure: criterion + based - criterion: from greek kritērion (a means for judging, standard), from kritēs (judge). functions as the noun root specifying the standard. - based: from the english verb base (to establish on a foundation) + the past participle suffix -ed. functions as an adjectival suffix indicating being founded upon something.