View synonyms for

benchmark

or bench mark

[ bench-mahrk ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a standard of excellence, achievement, etc., against which similar things must be measured or judged:
The new hotel is a benchmark in opulence and comfort.
any standard or reference by which others can be measured or judged:
The current price for crude oil may become the benchmark.
Computers. an established point of reference against which computers or programs can be measured in tests comparing their performance, reliability, etc.
Surveying. Usually bench mark. a marked point of known or assumed elevation from which other elevations may be established. : BM

adjective

of, relating to, or resulting in a benchmark:
benchmark test, benchmark study.

verb (used with object)

to test (something) in order to develop a standard:
IT benchmarked the new software.
to measure (something) against a standard:
executive salaries benchmarked against the industry.

benchmark

/ ˈ��ɛ�Գ�ʃˌ��ɑː�� /

noun

a mark on a stone post or other permanent feature, at a point whose exact elevation and position is known: used as a reference point in surveying BM
1. a criterion by which to measure something; standard; reference point
2. ( as modifier )
  a benchmark test

verb

to measure or test against a benchmark
the firm benchmarked its pay against that in industry

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Word History and Origins

Origin of benchmark¹

First recorded in 1835–45; bench + mark ¹

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Common species such as the fence lizard could serve as a benchmark for scientists monitoring rarer or more elusive creatures.

From

City have set the benchmark in English football, as the first side to win four top-flight titles in a row, but they will relinquish their hold on the trophy this season.

From

For now, he said, the Fed could keep its benchmark interest rate steady "to wait for greater clarity before considering any adjustments".

From

Commentators usually benchmark the first 100 days as a time to assess the initial accomplishments of a new presidential administration.

From

It’s a benchmark he wishes we could revisit.

From

Related Words

benchman benchmarking

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