marker
noun
uk/ˈmɑːkər/ us [ C ]
a sign that shows what something is like or proves that something exists:
a marker of sth The company sees its invitation to join the business forum as a marker of success.
[ C, usually singular ]
something that is used as a comparison to judge or decide things, especially to set a standard for the future:
a marker for sth This new-style cookbook was effectively the marker for all the books that followed.
[ C ] (also marker pen)
a thick pen for writing or drawing:
a black/permanent/washable marker
put/lay/set down a/your marker (for sth)
to show clearly what your opinion or position about something is, and how you plan to act in the future:
By entering into this partnership, the company has put down a clear marker for the future.
Now is the time for a clear marker to be laid down about levels of executive pay.