What is an Exam ? Defination of an Exam or Examination

 Meaning of an Exam

An exam or examination is an official test that shows your knowledge or ability in a particular subject. Exam is the word most commonly used. Examination is more formal and is used mainly in written English.

I was told the exam was difficult.

All students must take a three-hour written examination.

When someone takes part in an exam, you say that they take it or sit it.

Many children want to take these exams.

After the third term we'll be sitting the exam.

Speakers of American English generally use take instead of 'sit'.
In conversation, you can also say that someone does an exam.

I did my exams last week.

If someone is successful in an exam, you say that they pass it.

If you want a good job, you'll have to pass your exams.

Be Careful!
To pass an exam always means to succeed in it. It does not mean to take part in it.
If someone is unsuccessful in an exam, you say that they fail it.

He failed the entrance exam.

I passed the written part but then failed the oral section hopelessly.

You also say that someone passes in or fails in a particular subject.

I've been told that I'll probably pass in English and French.

I failed in a few other subjects.