touchstone

American  

[tuhch-stohn] / ˈtʌtʃˌstoʊn /

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.

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touchstone British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of touchstone

First recorded in 1475–85; touch + stone

Example Sentences

The film is a generational touchstone, from the importance of relationships, self-sacrifice and doing what is right, to the consequences of concentrated wealth and greed.

From The Wall Street Journal

A fictional backstory of patriarch SP Chopra’s extended family’s demise, “The Complex” dissolves many of Mahajan’s — an associate professor of literary arts at Brown University — previous literary touchstones, ranging from musical inspiration to cinematic immersion.

From Los Angeles Times

She likened it to Whittier Boulevard, a touchstone of Mexican American culture in Southern California.

From Los Angeles Times

Since its release in April of last year, the film has been a cultural touchstone and point of extended conversation on its way to some $370 million in worldwide box office.

From Los Angeles Times

The book was a touchstone in her own life, because she admired its heroine’s courage even if she never had the courage to emulate it.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• barometer
• criterion