benchmark

American  

[bench-mahrk] / ˈbɛntʃˌmɑrk /

Or bench mark

noun

1. 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.

2. any standard or reference by which others can be measured or judged.

   The current price for crude oil may become the benchmark.

3. Computers. an established point of reference against which computers or programs can be measured in tests comparing their performance, reliability, etc.

4. Surveying. Usually bench mark a marked point of known or assumed elevation from which other elevations may be established. BM

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adjective

1. of, relating to, or resulting in a benchmark.

   benchmark test, benchmark study.

verb (used with object)

1. to test (something) in order to develop a standard.

   IT benchmarked the new software.

2. to measure (something) against a standard.

   executive salaries benchmarked against the industry.

benchmark British  

/ ˈbɛntʃˌmɑːk /

noun

1.  BM.  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

2. 1. a criterion by which to measure something; standard; reference point

   2. ( as modifier )

      a benchmark test

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verb

1. to measure or test against a benchmark

   the firm benchmarked its pay against that in industry

Etymology

Origin of benchmark

First recorded in 1835–45; bench + mark ¹

Example Sentences

The most recent reading of the group’s benchmark sentiment survey showed a net bearish result of 42.7%, up from 36.3% at the start of the month and the longer-term average of 31%.

From Barron's

Stocks were rising Friday as the benchmark S&P 500 index continued its recovery to end a volatile November.

From Barron's

Markets expect the Federal Reserve to cut benchmark interest rates again in December, following signs that the labor market is cooling.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Bank of Korea on Thursday left its benchmark seven-day repurchase rate unchanged at 2.50%, as widely expected.

From The Wall Street Journal

But Wednesday’s market gains were also broad-based, with all but two sectors of the S&P 500 marching higher and the broader benchmark rising 0.7%.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• criterion
• gauge
• standard
• yardstick