Mark, n.
1. A visible sign or impression made or left upon anything; esp., a line, point, stamp, figure, or the like, drawn or impressed, so as to attract the attention and convey some information or intimation; a token; a trace.
The Lord set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him. --Gen. iv. 15.
2. Specifically: (a) A character or device put on an article of merchandise by the maker to show by whom it was made; a trade-mark. (b) A character (usually a cross) made as a substitute for a signature by one who can not write.
The mark of the artisan is found upon the most ancient fabrics that have come to light. --Knight.
3. A fixed object serving for guidance, as of a ship, a traveler, a surveyor, etc.; as, a seamark, a landmark.
4. A trace, dot, line, imprint, or discoloration, although not regarded as a token or sign; a scratch, scar, stain, etc.; as, this pencil makes a fine mark.
I have some marks of yours upon my pate. --Shak.
5. An evidence of presence, agency, or influence; a significative token; a symptom; a trace; specifically, a permanent impression of one's activity or character.
The confusion of tongues was a mark of separation. --Bacon.
6. That toward which a missile is directed; a thing aimed at; what one seeks to hit or reach.
France was a fairer mark to shoot at than Ireland. --Davies.
Whate'er the motive, pleasure is the mark. --Young.
7. Attention, regard, or respect.
As much in mock as mark. --Shak.
8. Limit or standard of action or fact; as, to be within the mark; to come up to the mark.
9. Badge or sign of honor, rank, or official station.
In the official marks invested, you
Anon do meet the Senate. --Shak.
10. Preeminence; high position; as, patricians of mark; a fellow of no mark.
11. Logic A characteristic or essential attribute; a differential.
12. A number or other character used in registering; as, examination marks; a mark for tardiness.
13. Image; likeness; hence, those formed in one's image; children; descendants. [Obs.] “All the mark of Adam.”
14. Naut. One of the bits of leather or colored bunting which are placed upon a sounding line at intervals of from two to five fathoms. The unmarked fathoms are called “deeps.”
A man of mark, a conspicuous or eminent man.
To make one's mark. a To sign, as a letter or other writing, by making a cross or other mark. (b) To make a distinct or lasting impression on the public mind, or on affairs; to gain distinction.
Syn: -- Impress; impression; stamp; print; trace; vestige; track; characteristic; evidence; proof; token; badge; indication; symptom.