landmark
UK: ˈlændmɑːk | US: ˈlændmɑːrk
n. a prominent or easily recognizable feature of a landscape
n. an event or discovery marking an important stage or turning point
n. a historical or cultural site of significance
The word landmark originated in Old English as a compound of land (referring to physical terrain) and mark (a visible sign or boundary). Initially, it described natural or man-made features (e.g., hills, stones) used to navigate or demarcate territory. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to denote significant events or cultural sites that "stand out" like physical markers in a landscape.
The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark in Paris.
Her discovery was a landmark in cancer research.
Ancient tribes used rivers as landmarks for travel.
The treaty became a landmark in diplomatic history.
The old lighthouse serves as a coastal landmark for sailors.