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.

The film is a generational touchstone, from the importance of relationships, self-sacrifice and doing what is right, to the consequences of concentrated wealth and greed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

The book was a touchstone in her own life, because she admired its heroine’s courage even if she never had the courage to emulate it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 12, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

Moira was my touchstone as I struggled with the reality of an unusually transient life, having lived in 29 homes by the age of 46.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 5, 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