noun Uncommon

hallmark

HAWL-mahk

Hallmark (noun) means a distinctive feature or trait that marks something as genuine or characteristic. Example: “Attention to detail is the hallmark of her work.”

noun

A distinctive feature or trait that marks something as genuine or characteristic.

"Attention to detail is the hallmark of her work."

"Clear communication is a hallmark of good leadership."

An official stamp certifying the purity of gold, silver, or platinum items.

"The ring bore a hallmark showing it was genuine sterling silver."

verb

To officially stamp precious metal to certify its purity.

"All the jewelry sold here is hallmarked."

How to use hallmark

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA defining, telltale sign of something's quality or identity.

Common pairings

a hallmark of bear the hallmark of

Word forms

hallmarked past tense, hallmarks plural, hallmarks singular

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Attention to detail is the _____ of her work.

Etymology

From "hall" + "mark," originally the official stamp applied at Goldsmiths' Hall in London to certify precious metals.

Synonyms

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trademark authentication earmark stylemark assay-mark

Related words

brand appropriate reserve logo signature trademark certification assign

Frequently asked questions

What does “hallmark” mean?

The word “hallmark” means a distinctive feature or trait that marks something as genuine or characteristic. In plain terms, a defining, telltale sign of something's quality or identity.

How do you pronounce “hallmark”?

“Hallmark” is pronounced HAWL-mahk (/ˈhɔlmɑɹk/ in IPA).

How do you use “hallmark” in a sentence?

Here is “hallmark” used in a sentence: “Attention to detail is the hallmark of her work.”

What part of speech is “hallmark”?

Depending on how it is used, “hallmark” can be a noun and a verb.

Is “hallmark” a common word?

“Hallmark” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “hallmark” have?

“Hallmark” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a distinctive feature or trait that marks something as genuine or characteristic.

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