bench mark: Meaning and Definition of

bench' mark"

1. a marked point of known or assumed elevation from which other elevations may be established. Abbr.: BM
2. benchmark.

bench•mark

1. a standard of excellence, achievement, etc., against which similar things must be measured or judged: The new hotel is a benchmark in opulence and comfort.
2. any standard or reference by which others can be measured or judged: The current price for crude oil may become the benchmark.
3. an established point of reference against which computers or programs can be measured in tests comparing their performance, reliability, etc.

1. of, pertaining to, or resulting in a benchmark: benchmark test, benchmark study.