emblem
Americannoun
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an object or its representation, symbolizing a quality, state, class of persons, etc.; symbol.
The olive branch is an emblem of peace.
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a sign, design, or figure that identifies or represents something.
the emblem of a school.
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an allegorical picture, often inscribed with a motto supplemental to the visual image with which it forms a single unit of meaning.
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Obsolete. an inlaid or tessellated ornament.
verb (used with object)
noun
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a visible object or representation that symbolizes a quality, type, group, etc, esp the concrete symbol of an abstract idea
the dove is an emblem of peace
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an allegorical picture containing a moral lesson, often with an explanatory motto or verses, esp one printed in an emblem book
Other Word Forms
- emblematic adjective
- emblematically adverb
Etymology
Origin of emblem
1400–50; late Middle English < Latin emblēma inlaid or mosaic work < Greek émblēma something put on, equivalent to em- em- 2 + blêma something thrown or put; compare embállein to throw in or on
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.
Official emblem of the Greater Mumbai Police, with a hand holding up the scales of justice.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026
At an archaeological site in southern Lebanon's Tyre, small signs bearing a blue and white emblem provide a symbolic shield, meant to protect the ancient ruins from bombardment.
From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026
She zoomed in on the school blazer and began trying to locate the school through its emblem.
From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026
Students on several campuses have embraced symbols of the monarchy, such as the country’s former flag, which has a “Lion and Sun” emblem on it associated with the dynasty.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 28, 2026
She presses the front doors closed, smacking away pairs of hands holding pens and parchment pads marked with the newsie house emblem.
From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
