... in response to There are many definitions..., posted by MarkInTx on Jan 9, 2003mark [1]  (märk)  n., v. 
              n. 
                  1.  a visible impression on a surface, as a 
                       line, spot, scratch, dent, or stain.
                  2.  a symbol used in writing or printing: a 
                       punctuation mark.
                  3.  a token or indication; sign: to bow as a 
                       mark of respect.
                  4.  a noticeable or lasting effect; imprint: 
                       The experience had left its mark on her.
                  5.  a distinctive or characteristic trait: a 
                       mark of nobility.
                  6.  a device or symbol serving to identify, 
                       indicate origin or ownership, etc.
                  7.  TRADEMARK.
                  8.  a sign, usu. a cross, made instead of a 
                       signature.
                  9.  a.  a symbol used in rating a student's 
                            achievement; grade.
                       b.  Often,  any evaluative 
                            rating: gave him high marks for 
                            trying.
                10.  an object or sign serving to indicate 
                       position.
                11.  a point reached, as on a scale or in a 
                       process: the halfway mark.
                12.  a recognized or required standard of 
                       merit: work that's not up to the mark.
                13.  a target; goal: to miss the mark.
                14.  distinction; note: a man of mark.
                15.  a.  an object of derision or abuse: an 
                            easy mark for bullies.
                       b.  the victim of a swindle.
                16.  (cap.) (used with a numeral to designate a 
                       model of an item of manufacture, as a 
                       weapon or car.).
                17.  the starting line in a race.
                18.  any of the points marked at intervals on a 
                       sounding line to indicate depth.
                19.  a tract of land held in common by a 
                       medieval Germanic community.
                20.  Archaic. land forming a boundary.