benchmark (iou) and spaniel (medicine)

benchmark (iou)

benchmark noun, adjective, & verb. M19.
[from BENCH noun + MARK noun1.]
A. noun.
A surveyor's mark consisting of a broad arrow with a horizontal bar through its apex, cut in rock etc. to indicate a point whose position and height have been surveyed. M19.
fig. A point of Reference, a criterion. L19.
b. attrib. or as adjective. Serving or used as a benchmark. M20.
Intercity Magazine Bass Draught is a benchmark bitter, with an excellent balance of ingredients.
C. verb trans. Test or check by comparison with a benchmark. (Foll. by to.) L20.

spaniel (medicine)

spaniel

1. <zoology> One of a breed of small dogs having long and thick hair and large drooping ears. The legs are usually strongly feathered, and the tail bushy

There are several varieties of spaniels, some of which, known as field spaniels, are used in hunting; others are used for toy or pet dogs, as the Blenheim spaniel, and the King Charles spaniel (see under Blenheim). Of the field spaniels, the larger kinds are called springers, and to these belong the Sussex, Norfolk, and Clumber spaniels (see Clumber). The smaller field spaniels, used in hunting woodcock, are called cocker spaniels (see Cocker). Field spaniels are remarkable for their activity and intelligence. "As a spaniel she will on him leap." (Chaucer)

2. A cringing, fawning person.

Origin: OF. Espagneul, F. Epagneul, espagnol Spanish, Sp. Espannol, fr. Espana Spain, from L. Hispania.

Source: Websters Dictionary

Sites

Pest Star