Touchstone - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A touchstone is a standard or criterion used to evaluate quality or authenticity. It can also refer to a real or metaphorical test to determine the value or truth of something.
Definition:
A standard or criterion by which something is judged or recognized.
Synonyms:
benchmark, yardstick, standard, gauge
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
anomaly, deviation
Common Collocations:
touchstone of quality, touchstone for success, literary touchstone
Derivatives:
touchstones, touchstoned (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "touchstone" to refer to a reliable test or measure of value in discussions about standards or comparisons.
Common Phrases:
the touchstone of truth, a touchstone moment, gold is the touchstone of metals
Etymology:
From Middle English "toucheston," referring to a stone used to test gold's purity by rubbing it against it.
Examples:
- 1. The novel became a touchstone for modern literature.
- 2. Her honesty was the touchstone of her character.
- 3. This experiment serves as a touchstone for future research.
- 4. His work is often the touchstone in academic debates.