marker

9 definitions • 12 examples

a sign that shows where something is:

I've put in some markers where I planted the seeds.

She reached the 500-metre marker in record time.

a characteristic feature, gene, or substance that shows something is happening or likely to happen, or shows which person or animal something comes from:

DNA tests involve criminalists who look for genetic markers in samples of human tissues and bodily fluids.

She argues that doctors should see unexplained pain as a marker for depression.

Having this role played by a woman is a clear marker of social change.

a pen with a thick writing point for writing or drawing

a symbol or object that gives information:

When the boats reached the halfway marker, the wind started to pick up.

A marker is also a type of pen that makes a thick line:

She used a yellow, felt-tip marker to highlight certain words.

a sign that shows what something is like or proves that something exists:

a marker of sth The company sees its invitation to join the business forum as a marker of success.

something that is used as a comparison to judge or decide things, especially to set a standard for the future:

a marker for sth This new-style cookbook was effectively the marker for all the books that followed.

a thick pen for writing or drawing:

a black/permanent/washable marker

to show clearly what your opinion or position about something is, and how you plan to act in the future:

By entering into this partnership, the company has put down a clear marker for the future.

Now is the time for a clear marker to be laid down about levels of executive pay.