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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Origin of benchmark

First recorded in 1835–45; bench + mark1

Words nearby benchmark

bench-press, bencher, benching iron, benchley, benchman, benchmark, benchmark position, benchrest, benchwarmer, benchy, bend
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2020

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
  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