touchstone

[ tuhch-stohn ]

noun

1. a test or criterion for the qualities of a thing.

   Synonyms: pattern, model, measure, standard

2. a black siliceous stone formerly used to test the purity of gold and silver by the color of the streak produced on it by rubbing it with either metal.

touchstone

/ ˈtʌtʃˌstəʊn /

noun

1. a criterion or standard by which judgment is made
2. a hard dark siliceous stone, such as basalt or jasper, that is used to test the quality of gold and silver from the colour of the streak they produce on it

Word History and Origins

Origin of touchstone¹

First recorded in 1475–85; touch + stone

Example Sentences

But some of the key touchstones — a mix of music and stories, a centering of children with candles — are present.

From Los Angeles Times

Characters struggle to connect across the divide; “Alice in Wonderland” is a touchstone.

From Los Angeles Times

Although he had no explicit definition of irony, he theorized that humans are strongly influenced by symbols expressed through myths and dreams or other cultural touchstones.

From Salon

For Corrin, who recently wrote a screenplay with a friend, Nelson’s work remains a touchstone.

From New York Times

“Brighter Days” finds the artist fusing rock ’n’ roll, country and bluegrass touchstones into a clarity of vision that he’s honed since rising from the Los Angeles cowpunk scene in the 1980s.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• barometer
• criterion