noun (n)

• disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings(noun.communication)

  Example:
  The senator received severe criticism from his opponent.
  

  Synonym:
  unfavorable judgment
  

  source: wordnet30
• a serious examination and judgment of something(noun.cognition)

  Example:
  Constructive criticism is always appreciated.
  

  Synonym:
  critique
  

  source: wordnet30
• a written evaluation of a work of literature(noun.communication)

  Synonym:
  literary criticism
  

  source: wordnet30
• The rules and principles which regulate the practice of the critic; the art of judging with knowledge and propriety of the beauties and faults of a literary performance, or of a production in the fine arts; as, dramatic criticism.(noun)

  source: webster1913