touchstone

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Here, too, Beethoven serves as a musical, spiritual and political touchstone.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

The film was not a major success on its initial release but steadily grew into a midnight-movie favorite and international cult touchstone.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

Founded by storyteller Anant Pai after he noticed children on a quiz show knew more about Greek gods than their own mythological heroes, ACK quickly became a cultural touchstone.

From Barron's • Feb. 1, 2026

It is also consistent with the Supreme Court’s admonition that the touchstone of the Fourth Amendment is whether the search or seizure is “reasonable,” not whether it is supported by a judicial warrant.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

The person who distrusts himself has no touchstone for reality—for this touchstone can be only oneself.

From "The Fire Next Time" by James Baldwin