litmus test
noun
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Litmus Test Has Scientific Origins
It was in the 14th century that scientists discovered that litmus, a mixture of colored organic compounds obtained from lichen, turns red in acid solutions and blue in alkaline solutions and, thus, can be used as an acid-base indicator. Six centuries later, people began using litmus test figuratively. It can now refer to any single factor that establishes the true character of something or causes it to be assigned to one category or another. Often it refers to something (such as an opinion about a political or moral issue) that can be used to make a judgment about whether someone or something is acceptable or not.
Examples of litmus test in a Sentence
Jason D. Greenblatt, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Apr. 2025
Meanwhile, some see Gibney’s upcoming documentary about Musk as a major litmus test for how far the gatekeepers will go to support a film that might antagonize Trump.
—Tatiana Siegel, Variety, 19 Mar. 2025
The third term question could quickly become a litmus test for the aspiring heirs to the MAGA crown.
—Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 18 Mar. 2025
The opening match will serve as a litmus test for both squads, offering a glimpse into their form and aspirations for the year ahead.
—Jenn Nelson, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for litmus test
Cite this Entry
“Litmus test.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/litmus%20test. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.
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