mark1
• noun 1 a small area on a surface having a different colour from its surroundings. 2 something that indicates position or acts as a pointer. 3 a line, figure, or symbol made to identify or record something. 4 a sign or indication of a quality or feeling. 5 a characteristic feature or property of something. 6 a level or stage. 7 a point awarded for a correct answer or for proficiency in an examination. 8 a particular model or type of a vehicle or machine. • verb 1 make a mark on. 2 write a word or symbol on (an object) in order to identify it. 3 indicate the position of. 4 (mark out) distinguish or delineate. 5 indicate or acknowledge (a significant event). 6 (mark up or down) increase or reduce the indicated price of (an item). 7 assess and give a mark to (written work). 8 notice or pay careful attention to. 9 Brit. (in team games) stay close to (an opponent) in order to prevent them getting or passing the ball. — PHRASES be quick off the mark be fast in responding. make a mark have a lasting or significant effect. mark time 1 (of troops) march on the spot without moving forward. 2 engage temporarily in routine activities. near (or close) to the mark almost accurate. off (or wide of) the mark incorrect or inaccurate. on the mark correct; accurate. on your marks be ready to start (used to instruct competitors in a race). up to the mark up to the required standard or normal level. — ORIGIN Old English.
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