Definition

A significant event or point in a process that marks progress or achievement.

Example

Graduating from college was a major milestone in her life.

Conversation

I just hit a big milestone in my project at work.

That's amazing! What did you accomplish?

I finally completed the first phase, which feels like a huge deal.

Congrats! Celebrating those milestones is so important.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Milestone → It is formed from "mile" (from Latin *mille*, meaning a thousand) and "stone" (from Old English *stan*, meaning a rock or stone). A milestone originally referred to a stone marker indicating the distance of a thousand paces or a mile along a road.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'stone' that marks a 'mile' — a milestone is a marker that shows how far you've come on a journey.

Visually Confused Words