bench·mark / ˈbenchˌmärk/ • n. 1. a standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed: [as adj.] a benchmark case. ∎  a problem designed to evaluate the performance of a computer system: Xstones is a graphics benchmark.2. a surveyor's mark cut in a wall, pillar, or building and used as a reference point in measuring elevations.• v. [tr.] evaluate or check (something) by comparison with a standard: we are benchmarking our performance against external criteria. ∎  [intr.] evaluate or check something in this way: we continue to benchmark against the competition. ∎  [intr.] show particular results during a benchmark test: the device should benchmark at between 100 and 150 MHz.

benchmark (benchmark problem) A problem that has been designed to evaluate the performance of a system (hardware and software). In a benchmark test a system is subjected to a known workload and the performance of the system against this workload is measured. Typically the purpose is to compare the measured performance with that of other systems that have been subject to the same benchmark test; the performance is then said to be benchmarked.

Examples of benchmark programs include the Ackermann benchmark, debit/credit benchmark, pi benchmark, Ramp-C benchmark, and whetstone benchmark.

benchmark a standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed; a benchmark was originally a surveyor's mark cut in a wall, pillar, or building and used as a reference point in measuring altitudes.

The mark consists of a series of wedge-shaped incisures, in the form of the ‘broad-arrow’ with a horizontal bar through its apex; when the spot is below sea-level, as in mining surveys, the mark is inverted. The horizontal bar is the essential part, the broad arrow being added (originally by the Ordnance Survey) as an identification. In taking a reading, an angle-iron is held with its upper extremity inserted in the horizontal bar, so as to form a temporary bracket or bench for the support of the levelling-staff, which can thus be placed on absolutely the same base on any subsequent occasion.