V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary
touchstone
noun
Definition: a basic principle or standard used to judge other things
Synonyms: benchmark, goal, standard, principle, example, reference
Antonyms: anomaly
Tips: Touchstone used to refer to a black rock, like basalt or jasper, that was used to test for gold and silver. Moneychangers would check the streaks on the touchstone to look for counterfeit coins. That original sense of touchstone is archaic, but the word still refers to a gauge, reference, benchmark, or standard.
Usage Examples:
Because the report was very thorough, the instructor used it as a touchstone for others' assignments. (example, standard, reference)
The company boasts that it is the touchstone of web site success. (standard, benchmark, example)
Mark Twain's "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" is considered a touchstone for aspiring folk authors. (example, standard, goal)
The singer's success is a touchstone for young, aspiring stars. (goal, standard, example)
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