Meaning of TOUCHSTONE
| Pronunciation: | | 'tutshstown
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 WordNet Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | | [n] a basis for comparison; a reference point against which other things can be evaluated; "they set the measure for all subsequent work" |
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| | Synonyms: | | criterion, measure, standard |
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| | See Also: | | baseline, benchmark, graduated table, medium of exchange, monetary system, norm, ordered series, point of reference, reference, reference point, scale, scale of measurement, standard of measurement, yardstick | |
| Webster's 1913 Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | | \Touch"stone`\, n.
1. (Min.) Lydian stone; basanite; -- so called because used
to test the purity of gold and silver by the streak which
is left upon the stone when it is rubbed by the metal. See
{Basanite}.
2. Fig.: Any test or criterion by which the qualities of a
thing are tried. --Hooker.
The foregoing doctrine affords us also a touchstone
for the trial of spirits. --South.
{Irish touchstone} (Min.), basalt, the stone which composes
the Giant's Causeway.
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