reference mark

noun

1. Surveying. a permanent mark set at a specific distance in a specific direction from a survey station so as to permit accurate reestablishment of the station.
2. any of various written or printed symbols, as an asterisk (*), dagger (†), or superscript number, used to indicate the presence of further information in a footnote, bibliography, or other text.

Word History and Origins

Origin of reference mark¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

“To achieve peacefully the formidable leap between an ethnic consciousness and a national consciousness, the reference mark of identity must be strong, and that fixed point is called ivoirité,” Mr. Bédié wrote in the French magazine Jeune Afrique in 1999.

From New York Times

In 1897, Venice began taking the measure of its enemy, establishing a reference mark for high water at the Punta della Salute entrance of the Grand Canal.

From New York Times

The billboards also share the phrase "gaht" which is used by Wallen and reference "Mark 11:25," a bible verse.

From Fox News

For quick reference, Mark Merritt, Alexander's communications director, maintains a manila file folder of indexed responses to potentially damaging questions in the top-left drawer of his desk in Nashville.

From Time Magazine Archive

Into the middle of the area he stuck a tattoo needle that left a blue dot for a reference mark.

From Time Magazine Archive