benchmark
or bench mark
[ bench-mahrk ]
/ ˈbɛntʃˌmɑrk /
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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Nearby words
bencher, benching iron, benchley, benchley, robert charles, benchman, benchmark, benchmark position, benchmarking, benchrest, benchwarmer, benchy
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
British Dictionary definitions for benchmarking
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
- a criterion by which to measure something; standard; reference point
- (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
Word Origin and History for benchmarking
benchmark
also bench-mark, "surveyor's point of reference," 1838, from a specialized surveyors' use of bench (n.) + mark (n.1); figurative sense is from 1884.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper