Definition of BENCHMARK (original) (raw)
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
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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Such controls offer a benchmark of excellence for node operators. —
Amor Sexton, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 Despite these efforts, Chateau said that the benchmarks were assessed every two months and not met. —Nour Rahal, Detroit Free Press, 30 Oct. 2024
Benchmark To Tap Into Industry Wisdom Leverage public data and industry reports to benchmark the most critical skills for the role. —Shiran Danoch, Forbes, 9 Oct. 2024 Pay Attention To Benefits Utilization And Drive Awareness HR leaders should benchmark their total rewards strategy and pay attention to the utilization of the benefits that are offered. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 2 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for benchmark 
Word History
First Known Use
Noun
1813, in the meaning defined at sense 2
Verb
1952, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of benchmark was in 1813
Dictionary Entries Near benchmark
Cite this Entry
“Benchmark.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benchmark. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.
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Last Updated: 2 Nov 2024 - Updated example sentences
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