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benchmark

benchmark

5 5.7
A mark on a fixed object showing a known height for measuring land
  • noun
  • /ˈbɛnʧmɑrk/
  • Specialized
translation icon : hito geodésico
  • During serial follow-up examinations, the physician should look at otic discharge as the benchmark for defining the response to treatment.

Examples

  • Placed in 1945, this benchmark sits atop Manzanares Mesa overlooking Gobernador Canyon.

    Academic text (2001)

  • The benchmark in Europe for IGCG is the 300 MWe combined-cycle power plant at Puertollano in Spain.

    Academic text (2000)

  • A limited group of matched controls was used as a benchmark to bring out contrast in this portrait.

    Blog text (21)

  • All newly eligible adults will be guaranteed a benchmark benefit package that at least provides the essential health benefits.

    Blog text (11)

  • The team needs to follow the steps defined in Figure 1, keeping in mind the measurable benchmarks that are required to meet the goal.

    Academic text (2009)

  • The surveyor placed a benchmark on the old oak tree to help future measurements.

  • During the project, they marked a benchmark on the wall to ensure all heights would be accurate.

  • The construction team used the benchmark to determine the building's elevation above sea level.

Synonyms

bench mark
vsbenchmark
  • UK
6.4

A metal or stone mark in the ground that shows a known height to measure land

is the same term but written as a single word

Surface Forms

benchmark singular
benchmarks plural

Morphology

benchmark = bench + mark (semi-transparent) = bench + mark

The components 'bench' and 'mark' are literal words, but the technical surveying sense is specialized and not obvious to an average B1 learner.

Etymology

Benchmark first named a surveyor's mark cut on a bench, a fixed stone ledge or seat used as a stable point. So a benchmark is a known position and height used as a reference for measurements.