Landmark

Definition

A recognizable natural or artificial feature that typically stands out from its environment and has become a point of reference for navigation or identification.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjecive

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlændˌmɑrk/
• Respelling: LAND-mark (with "LAND" as in "hand" and "mark" as in "park")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlændˌmɑːk/
• Respelling: LAND-mahk (with "LAND" as in "hand" and "mahk" as in "park")

In both dialects, "landmark" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "LAND." The American pronunciation includes a pronounced "mark" sound, while the British pronunciation has a longer "ah" sound in "mahk."

Etymology

From Middle English "lond", meaning 'land', and "mearc", meaning 'mark' or 'boundary'. Originally referred to a boundary marker or stone.

Derivatives

• Landmarking
• Landmarker
• Landmarked
• Landmark case
• Landmark decision

Synonyms

• Monument
• Milestone
• Reference point

Antonyms

• Obscurity
• Unimportance
• Insignificance

Usage

Landmarks are used for navigation, cultural significance, and historical importance. They can be natural features, such as mountains, or man-made structures, such as buildings or statues.

Related Terms

• Monument: A structure erected to commemorate persons or events.
• Beacon: A light or other visible object serving as a signal, warning, or guide.
• Heritage site: A place designated as having cultural, historical, scientific, or other forms of significance.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Landmark (Noun): An object or feature of a landscape or town that is easily seen and recognized from a distance, especially one that enables someone to establish their location.
  • Example: "The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark in Paris."

• Landmark (Noun): An event, discovery, or change marking an important stage or turning point in something.
  • Example: "The invention of the internet was a landmark in modern history."

Adjective

• Landmark (Adjective): Denoting an event, discovery, or change marking an important stage or turning point in something.
  • Example: "The landmark decision by the Supreme Court changed the course of the law."