gold standard

noun

Synonyms of gold standardnext
1
: a monetary standard under which the basic unit of currency is defined by a stated quantity of gold and which is usually characterized by the coinage and circulation of gold, unrestricted convertibility of other money into gold, and the free export and import of gold for settling of international obligations
2

Examples of gold standard in a Sentence

the gold standard for accurate experimental procedures is the double-blind medication trial
Recent Examples on the Web
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Decades later, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions remains a gold standard for Arctic exploration, with deep regional expertise across Svalbard, Greenland, Arctic Canada and the Northwest Passage. Laura Begley Bloom, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026 In every action, EPA applies the highest gold standard of science and analysis. Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 17 Jan. 2026 While Rag & Bone remains my gold standard, there are plenty of more affordable options worth shopping, including polished Gap sweatpant jeans that deliver the same comfort-first appeal, plus Amazon finds starting at just $37. Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 8 Jan. 2026 Disability Rights California, a nonprofit that has been among the strongest critics, declined to comment on Ed’s situation directly, but did emphasize that voluntary treatment is its gold standard. Paul Sisson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gold standard

Word History

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of gold standard was in 1811

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Cite this Entry

“Gold standard.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gold%20standard. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

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