hallmark Definition

hallmark
noun

1. An official series of marks stamped on gold, silver and platinum articles to guarantee their authenticity.
2. Any mark of genuineness or excellence.

Thesaurus: badge, emblem, seal, stamp, sign, symbol.
3. A typical or distinctive feature, especially of quality.

verb

hallmarked, hallmarking
1. To stamp with a hallmark.

Etymology: 18c: named after Goldsmiths' Hall in London where articles were originally classed and stamped.