caste mark

noun

1. (in India) a mark, usually on the forehead, symbolizing and identifying caste membership.
2. a distinctive trait, associated with a group or class and marking a person as a member.

Word History and Origins

Origin of caste mark¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

The caste mark on the largest idol's head was a polished ruby, overlooked doubtless during the loot.

From Project Gutenberg

"We know that it is true," was the answer, and it came from a lady with a red caste-mark like a wafer upon her forehead.

From Project Gutenberg

Outward signs there are none, neither caste mark nor peculiarity of dress; but we know each other by signs.

From Project Gutenberg

It smote the offender between the eyebrows, leaving a caste-mark of warm ash to attest the accuracy of his aim.

From Project Gutenberg

Leaning forward, she took his head in her hands and kissed him between his eyebrows where the caste-mark should be.

From Project Gutenberg