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marker

n. · v.
US //ˈmɑɹkɝ// UK //mˈɑːkɐ// mark·er
  1. 1 a felt-tip pen (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    a thick pen with a tip made of felt, used for writing or drawing.

    a felt-tipped drawing or writing instrument, typically containing its own ink source.

    Example

    He used a red marker to circle the mistakes on the poster.

    Example

    The architect used permanent markers to create a bold outline on the presentation board before adding finer details with a technical pen.
    • felt tip
    • highlighter
  2. 2 an indicator or sign (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    an object or sign that shows the position of something or acts as a signal.

    an object, sign, or characteristic that serves to identify a position, boundary, or specific quality.

    Example

    The hikers left a pile of stones as a marker for the trail.

    Example

    The sudden drop in temperature served as a biological marker for the changing seasons, prompting the local wildlife to begin their migration.
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  1. 3 a person who grades (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    a person who reads and gives points to exam papers or essays.

    an individual responsible for assessing and assigning grades to examination scripts or academic assignments.

    Example

    The exam marker was very strict and didn't give many high scores.

    Example

    The external marker noted that while the students demonstrated strong theoretical knowledge, their practical application of the concepts remained inconsistent.
  2. 4 a favor owed (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Slang

    a favor that you owe someone, or that someone owes you.

    a figurative or literal debt of honor or a personal favor owed to another party.

    Example

    I helped him get that job, so I'm calling in a marker now.

    Example

    The senator decided to call in a few markers from his colleagues to ensure the controversial bill passed the committee stage.
  3. 5 sports defender (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    a player whose job is to stay close to an opponent to stop them from playing well.

    a defensive player assigned to guard or track a specific offensive opponent.

    Example

    The striker managed to get away from his marker and score a goal.

    Example

    The coach instructed the wing-back to act as a tight marker, ensuring the opponent's star playmaker had no space to operate.
  4. 6 to use a marker pen (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to write or draw on something using a marker pen.

    to apply ink to a surface using a felt-tipped instrument.

    Example

    Please marker your name on the box so we don't lose it.

    Example

    The warehouse staff were instructed to marker each crate with a unique identification number before loading them onto the freight ship.
Origin

From mark + -er.

Idioms1 entry

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