yardstick

noun yard·stick \ˈyärd-ˌstik\

: a long, flat tool that is one yard long and is used to measure things

: a rule or specific idea about what is acceptable or desirable that is used to judge or measure something

Full Definition of YARDSTICK

a : a graduated measuring stick three feet (0.9144 meter) long

b : a standard basis of calculation <a yardstick for measuring astronomical distances>

: a standard for making a critical judgment : criterion <measured by the yardstick of her first book> <was a great success by any yardstick>

See yardstick defined for English-language learners

See yardstick defined for kids

First Known Use of YARDSTICK

1610

Related to YARDSTICK

Synonyms: bar, barometer, benchmark, criterion, gold standard, grade, mark, measure, metric, par, touchstone, standard

Synonym Discussion of YARDSTICK

standard, criterion, gauge, yardstick, touchstone mean a means of determining what a thing should be. standard applies to any definite rule, principle, or measure established by authority <standards of behavior>. criterion may apply to anything used as a test of quality whether formulated as a rule or principle or not <questioned the critic's criteria for excellence>. gauge applies to a means of testing a particular dimension (as thickness, depth, diameter) or figuratively a particular quality or aspect <polls as a gauge of voter dissatisfaction>. yardstick is an informal substitute for criterion that suggests quantity more often than quality <housing construction as a yardstick of economic growth>. touchstone suggests a simple test of the authenticity or value of something intangible <fine service is one touchstone of a first-class restaurant>.