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
Clayton Davis, Variety, 6 May 2024
West Texas Intermediate — a light, crude oil that serves as a global benchmark — decreased by $2.93 to $79 a barrel, and U.S. crude oil inventories of 460.9 million barrels are about 3% below the five-year average for this time of year.
—Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 6 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for benchmark 
Noun
Fresh off a smashing first season that set a new benchmark for comedy series wins with 10 trophies, FX’s awards-gobbling show shows no signs of letting up.
—Clayton Davis, Variety, 6 May 2024
West Texas Intermediate — a light, crude oil that serves as a global benchmark — decreased by $2.93 to $79 a barrel, and U.S. crude oil inventories of 460.9 million barrels are about 3% below the five-year average for this time of year.
—Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 6 May 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.
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Cite this Entry
“Benchmark.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benchmark. Accessed 9 May. 2024.
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