touchstone

[ tuhch-stohn ]

noun

1. a test or criterion for the qualities of a thing.

   Synonyms: pattern, model, measure, standard

2. a black siliceous stone formerly used to test the purity of gold and silver by the color of the streak produced on it by rubbing it with either metal.

touchstone

/ ˈtʌtʃˌstəʊn /

noun

1. a criterion or standard by which judgment is made
2. a hard dark siliceous stone, such as basalt or jasper, that is used to test the quality of gold and silver from the colour of the streak they produce on it

Word History and Origins

Origin of touchstone¹

First recorded in 1475–85; touch + stone

Example Sentences

“Brighter Days” finds the artist fusing rock ’n’ roll, country and bluegrass touchstones into a clarity of vision that he’s honed since rising from the Los Angeles cowpunk scene in the 1980s.

From Los Angeles Times

The bash and Klum’s elaborate costumes have become a pop-culture touchstone for the holiday, and she kicked off the event earlier this week with a symbolic lighting of the Empire State Building.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s also been a cultural touchstone for generations of his people.

From Salon

It’s a cultural touchstone for the centuries-old witches, an instruction manual for navigating the road and an infectious tune that’s become an earworm since the season premiere last month.

From Los Angeles Times

The fact that "The O.C." remains a cultural touchstone 20 years on is a point of deep pride for Gallagher, and he's still fond of "those kids," as he calls his younger co-stars.

From Salon

Related Words

• barometer
• criterion