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landmark

LAND-mark /ˈlændmɑːrk/

nounB1SATACTIELTS

general

An object or feature of a landscape or town that is easily seen and recognized from a distance.

A landmark can be a natural feature like a mountain or a man-made structure like a tower; it serves as a point of orientation.

The story behind the word. Originally, a landmark was literally a 'mark' on the 'land' used to show where one person's property ended and another's began. Over time, it evolved to mean any prominent object that helps someone find their way.

Word relationships

beacon: A beacon is specifically a light or signal, whereas a landmark is any recognizable feature.
monument: A monument is built specifically to commemorate something, while a landmark might just be a functional building that is easy to see.

obscurity: Obscurity refers to something that is hidden or not easily recognized.

Commonly confused with

milestone: A milestone is a significant stage in a process, while a landmark is a physical object or a significant event.

Word family

landmarking (verb): The act of designating a building as a landmark.

Collocations

famous landmark
historic landmark
geographical landmark
landmark decision

Idioms & expressions

a landmark case

Example sentences

"The Eiffel Tower is the most famous landmark in Paris, visible from almost every corner of the city." Navigating through a city.
"The signing of the treaty was a landmark event in the nation's history." A historical turning point.

Memory hook

A landmark is a 'mark' on the 'land' that helps you know where you are. Landmark = Land Marker.

When not to use

Do not use 'landmark' for something small or obscure that cannot be used for navigation or recognition.

Fun facts

The Hollywood Sign was originally an advertisement for a real estate development called 'Hollywoodland' before becoming a world-famous landmark.