A standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed. The new software set a benchmark for performance in the industry.
A surveyor's mark made on a permanent object of predetermined position and elevation and used as a reference point in measuring altitudes. The surveyor used the benchmark to ensure accurate measurements of the land's elevation.
A test or set of tests used to compare the performance of various systems or components. The computer's speed was evaluated using a series of benchmarks.