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benchmark

or bench mark

[ bench-mahrk ]
/ ˈbɛntʃˌmɑrk /
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noun
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.
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Origin of benchmark

First recorded in 1835–45; bench + mark1
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use benchmark in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for benchmark

benchmark
/ (ˈbɛntʃˌmɑːk) /

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 surveyingAbbreviation: 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 benchmarkthe firm benchmarked its pay against that in industry
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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