a man of mark

Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

1.A visible sign or impression made or left upon anything; esp., a line, point, stamp, figure, or the like, drawn or impressed, so as to attract the attention and convey some information or intimation; a token; a trace. [1913 Webster]

The Lord set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.— Gen. iv. 15.[1913 Webster]

2.Specifically: (a) A character or device put on an article of merchandise by the maker to show by whom it was made; a trade-mark. (b) A character (usually a cross) made as a substitute for a signature by one who can not write. [1913 Webster]

The mark of the artisan is found upon the most ancient fabrics that have come to light.— Knight.[1913 Webster]

3.A fixed object serving for guidance, as of a ship, a traveler, a surveyor, etc.; as, a seamark, a landmark. [1913 Webster]

4.A trace, dot, line, imprint, or discoloration, although not regarded as a token or sign; a scratch, scar, stain, etc.; as, this pencil makes a fine mark. [1913 Webster]

I have some marks of yours upon my pate.— Shak.[1913 Webster]

5.An evidence of presence, agency, or influence; a significative token; a symptom; a trace; specifically, a permanent impression of one's activity or character. [1913 Webster]

The confusion of tongues was a mark of separation.— Bacon.[1913 Webster]

6.That toward which a missile is directed; a thing aimed at; what one seeks to hit or reach. [1913 Webster]

France was a fairer mark to shoot at than Ireland.— Davies.[1913 Webster]

Whate'er the motive, pleasure is the mark.— Young.[1913 Webster]

7.Attention, regard, or respect. [1913 Webster]

As much in mock as mark.— Shak.[1913 Webster]

8.Limit or standard of action or fact; as, to be within the mark; to come up to the mark. [1913 Webster]

9.Badge or sign of honor, rank, or official station. [1913 Webster]

In the official marks invested, you Anon do meet the Senate.— Shak.[1913 Webster]

10.Preeminence; high position; as, patricians of mark; a fellow of no mark. [1913 Webster]

11.(Logic) A characteristic or essential attribute; a differential. [1913 Webster]

12.A number or other character used in registering; as, examination marks; a mark for tardiness. [1913 Webster]

13.Image; likeness; hence, those formed in one's image; children; descendants. [Obs.] "All the mark of Adam." --Chaucer. [1913 Webster]

14.(Naut.) One of the bits of leather or colored bunting which are placed upon a sounding line at intervals of from two to five fathoms. The unmarked fathoms are called "deeps." [1913 Webster]

A man of mark, a conspicuous or eminent man.

To make one's mark. (a) To sign, as a letter or other writing, by making a cross or other mark. (b) To make a distinct or lasting impression on the public mind, or on affairs; to gain distinction. [1913 Webster]

Syn: Impress; impression; stamp; print; trace; vestige; track; characteristic; evidence; proof; token; badge; indication; symptom. [1913 Webster]