mark 1 of 2

Definition of marknext
1
as in to label
to attach an identifying slip to marked each application with a numbered sticker

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2
as in to characterize
to be an important feature of an annual event marked mostly by noise and confusion

Synonyms & Similar Words

3

mark

2 of 2

noun

1
as in joke
a person or thing that is made fun of in the wake of the scandal, the disgraced governor became the favorite mark of late-night comedians

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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as in criterion
something set up as an example against which others of the same type are compared lately his playing hasn't been up to the mark expected of a concert pianist

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word mark distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of mark are note, sign, symptom, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When can note be used instead of mark?

In some situations, the words note and mark are roughly equivalent. However, note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

When would sign be a good substitute for mark?

The synonyms sign and mark are sometimes interchangeable, but sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

In what contexts can symptom take the place of mark?

The meanings of symptom and mark largely overlap; however, symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

When is token a more appropriate choice than mark?

While in some cases nearly identical to mark, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mark
Verb
An amuse bouche opened the meal, a palate-cleansing sorbet marked the end of the dinner and the beginning of dessert, and a little treat, and the end felt like a festive way to linger a little longer and celebrate a special meal. Christine Sarkis, USA Today, 13 June 2026 Almine Rech will mark the collaboration with the debut of a bronze sculpture cast from a life model Carrington created in 2010 at Art Basel this June. Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 13 June 2026
Noun
That event would leave an indelible mark on Gallagher, who spent his life researching the cult and its leaders, Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles. Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 12 June 2026 The mass shooting that claimed 49 lives and injured dozens of others—the deadliest hate crime targeting LGBTQ+ people in American history—still leaves a grievous mark, most especially in a city, state and nation besieged with new attacks on the gay community. R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for mark
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mark
Verb
  • In his ruling dismissing the murder case, Wilson found the sheriff’s office did not properly label, store or preserve a dash camera and an SD card from Fosler’s truck.
    Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 6 June 2026
  • In any other country, the digital work of Medina and Perez, or the documentation of events in the streets by Ramírez Martínez and Ceballos, would be labeled citizen journalism.
    Sarah Moreno June 5, Miami Herald, 6 June 2026
Verb
  • Rather than a slight to Lane, Lithgow’s win is a sign of the dramatic depth that characterized this otherwise squirrely season.
    Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2026
  • Such variety seemed impossible as recently as 2018, when the Golden State Warriors were at the height of their reign and decades of history suggested the NBA would always be the American sports league most characterized by dynasties.
    Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 7 June 2026
Verb
  • Video Mendias recorded showed officers pouring out of the back of an armored police vehicle and police deploying robots into the area.
    Robert McGreevy , Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 12 June 2026
  • The American superstar dropped Live From Asbury Park 2024 on vinyl – a set that was recorded during the musician's performance at the Sea.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026
Noun
  • Despite all of the excellent jokes, ultimately Night Night Fawn can be nothing other than a tragedy.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 June 2026
  • In casual conversation, it’s treated as a biological footnote, something between a quirk and a joke.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • District officials believe the aging of existing farmers with no succession plans, less valuable soils in that area, and the current low prices for commodities make financial incentives more attractive and the target attainable.
    Allen Best, Denver Post, 14 June 2026
  • The ingredient lineup champions prickly pear cactus extract, which draws moisture into the skin and provides a rich source of vitamin K to support elasticity, while Persian silk tree extract targets signs of fatigue.
    Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 13 June 2026
Noun
  • Founded in 1997, Archrival has established a reputation for campaigns that connect brands with younger audiences through sports, collegiate activations, ambassador networks and immersive experiences.
    Todd Spangler, Variety, 10 June 2026
  • Anthony was the owner of Haddon Vet and had a reputation in the community for treating his furry patients with care and compassion.
    Laura Fay, CBS News, 10 June 2026
Noun
  • Brocco said the foundation is still developing its application process and evaluation criteria before funding decisions are made.
    Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 13 June 2026
  • If a child meets the criteria, and doesn't require more intensive care at the hospital, Diouf hands them packets of Plumpy'Nut.
    Jonathan Lambert, NPR, 13 June 2026
Noun
  • Washington says the goal is to reduce aid dependence while advancing US interests.
    Nimi Princewill, CNN Money, 8 June 2026
  • If the goal is to raise awareness, the best course of action is probably to let the subclinical cases be counted.
    Sloane Crosley, New Yorker, 8 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Mark.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mark. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.

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