marker

[ mahr-ker ]

noun

1. a person or thing that marks.
2. something used as a mark or indication, as a bookmark or tombstone.
3. a person who records the scores, points, etc., as in a game or contest.
4. a counter used in card playing.
5. Digital Technology. a navigation pointer or other indicator in a graphical user interface: Place markers at the beginning and end of your selection to trim your video in edit mode.

   Dragging the marker up the sound bar will increase the volume.

   Place markers at the beginning and end of your selection to trim your video in edit mode.

6. Genetics. genetic marker.
7. Psychology. an object, as a book or topcoat left at a library table, used to establish territorial possession in a public place.
8. Linguistics.
   1. an element of a construction, as a coordinating conjunction, that is not a part of either immediate constituent.
   2. an element that indicates the grammatical class or function of a construction.
9. a small radio beacon, automatically operated, used for local navigation of vessels.
10. mile-marker.
11. Also called mark·er pen, a pen designed for making bold, colorful, or indelible marks, as in making signs or identifying objects.
12. Slang.
    1. a debt, especially a gambling debt.
    2. a written or signed promise to pay a debt, especially a gambling debt; a promissory note or IOU.
13. Also called mark·er crude. Commerce. a grade of oil on which prices of other crude oils are based.
14. Citizens Band Radio Slang. one's location while driving on a highway, as determined by the nearest milepost.

ˈmarker

/ ˈmɑːkə /

noun

1. 1. something used for distinguishing or marking
   2. ( as modifier )

      a marker buoy

2. a person or thing that marks
3. a person or object that keeps or shows scores in a game
4. a trait, condition, gene, or substance that indicates the presence of, or a probable increased predisposition to, a medical or psychological disorder See biological marker genetic marker medical marker

Word History and Origins

Origin of marker¹

First recorded in 1480–90; mark ¹ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

"We know people get quite excited about the festive adverts. It's a marker in people's years and has become part of that Christmas countdown."

From BBC

These samples were then genetically tested using a species-specific marker called a DNA barcode.

From Salon

For decades, the California State University system focused on graduation rates as the top marker of student success, in line with most of its fellow higher education institutions.

From Los Angeles Times

The showdown between two of Europe's biggest football nations can be a marker of where the Lionesses must improve before the summer.

From BBC

There wasn’t even an enduring marker for the birth and death dates.

From Slate

Related Words

• flag
• gravestone
• indicator
• pole
• stone
• tombstone