bench·mark
ˈbench-ˌmärk 
1
a
: something that serves as a standard by which others may be measured or judged
a stock whose performance is a benchmark against which other stocks can be measured
b
: a point of reference from which measurements may be made
c
: a standardized problem or test that serves as a basis for evaluation or comparison (as of computer system performance)
2
usually bench mark
: a mark on a permanent object (such as a concrete post set into the ground) indicating elevation and serving as a reference in topographic surveys and tidal observations
benchmarked; benchmarking; benchmarks
business
: to study (something, such as a competitor's product or business practices) in order to improve the performance of one's own company
Synonyms
Examples of benchmark in a Sentence
Noun
a stock whose performance is a benchmark against which other stocks can be measured
this prize-winning biography will be the benchmark against which all others will be judged in future years
Recent Examples on the Web
Zimo Zhong, Quartz, 23 Apr. 2024
Yet, instead of feeling like the benchmark, many feel like they are being left out–or even a target.
—Barron Witherspoon, Sr., Fortune, 19 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for benchmark 
Noun
Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 edged 0.1% higher to 37,471.73, despite the country's manufacturing activity contracting for 11 straight months while approaching the break-even point in April as PMI came in at 49.9, according to Tuesday figures from au Jibun bank.
—Zimo Zhong, Quartz, 23 Apr. 2024
Yet, instead of feeling like the benchmark, many feel like they are being left out–or even a target.
—Barron Witherspoon, Sr., Fortune, 19 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for benchmark
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'benchmark.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near benchmark
Cite this Entry
“Benchmark.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benchmark. Accessed 3 May. 2024.
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