Landmark
Definitions and Meaning in English
- A significant or historically important feature, structure, or place that serves as a point of reference.
- An event or development that marks an important stage in a process or history.
- A notable or exceptional achievement that is regarded as a turning point.
- A prominent physical feature or object used for navigation or orientation.
History and Origin
The word “landmark” originates from the Old English land (meaning “territory” or “ground”) and mearc (meaning “boundary” or “mark”). It was originally used to describe boundary markers that helped people navigate across land, particularly to indicate property lines or territorial boundaries. Over time, the term broadened to refer to any notable or distinctive feature, whether man-made or natural, that marks a significant point in history or geography. Landmark also came to be applied metaphorically to describe key events or achievements in a variety of fields.
Detailed Explanation
A landmark is typically an object or feature that stands out within a particular context, often used as a point of reference in navigation or identification. Landmarks can be physical structures, such as a famous building, statue, or mountain, that are recognized and serve as identifiers for a location. In a broader sense, the term can also apply to important events or milestones in various fields, such as law, politics, or technology, that signify a pivotal moment or change. In modern usage, a landmark can be anything from a cultural monument to a momentous occasion in a person’s life or society.
Example Sentences
- The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark in Paris that attracts millions of visitors.
- The discovery of penicillin was a landmark event in the history of medicine.
- The new law was a landmark decision in the fight for environmental protection.
- The ancient pyramid served as a landmark for travelers crossing the desert.
- The company’s first successful product launch marked a significant landmark in its history.
- The Great Wall of China is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
- The artist’s latest exhibition was a landmark achievement in her career.
- The battle of Gettysburg was a landmark moment in the American Civil War.
- The invention of the internet is considered a landmark development in technology.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Milestone – A significant event or achievement marking an important stage in a process.
- Monument – A structure or object built to commemorate an important person, event, or achievement.
- Signpost – A marker or indication that guides direction, both literally and figuratively.
- Icon – A symbol or object widely recognized and revered, often serving as a landmark in a particular field.
- Touchstone – A standard or criterion by which something is judged or recognized, similar to a landmark achievement.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Heritage – Cultural or historical assets passed down through generations, often marked by landmarks.
- Landmark Decision – A legal decision that significantly alters the course of future rulings or laws.
- Point of Reference – A fixed place or object used for orientation, akin to a landmark in navigation.
- Historic Site – A location of cultural or historical importance, often marked as a landmark.
- Turning Point – A moment or event that dramatically changes the course of something, similar to a landmark moment.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Landmark Event – An important occurrence that significantly influences subsequent developments.
- Historic Landmark – A building, site, or feature that holds significant historical or cultural importance.
- Cultural Landmark – A place or object that holds deep cultural significance, often recognized globally.
- Landmark Legislation – A piece of law that creates a significant shift or change in policy or practice.
- Iconic Landmark – A well-known and symbolic feature or structure that represents a city, culture, or era.
Antonyms
- Obscurity
- Triviality
- Insignificance
- Anonymity
- Unremarkability
