emblem

American  

[em-bluhm] / ˈɛm bləm /

noun

1. an object or its representation, symbolizing a quality, state, class of persons, etc.; symbol.

   The olive branch is an emblem of peace.

   Synonyms:

   badge, device, image, figure, sign, token

2. a sign, design, or figure that identifies or represents something.

   the emblem of a school.

3. an allegorical picture, often inscribed with a motto supplemental to the visual image with which it forms a single unit of meaning.

4. Obsolete. an inlaid or tessellated ornament.

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verb (used with object)

1. to represent with an emblem.

emblem British  

/ ˈɛmbləm /

noun

1. 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

2. an allegorical picture containing a moral lesson, often with an explanatory motto or verses, esp one printed in an emblem book

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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

Explanation

An emblem is a design that stands for a group or a concept. If you’re Scottish, your family may have an emblem such as a coat of arms that symbolizes your heritage. Many countries have national emblems, which often feature an animal or other elements that represent significant parts of the country’s history. A national emblem is often shown on flags or official documents such as passports. An emblem can also be an object that represents an idea. An expensive skyscraper could be an emblem of greed, for example, or the apple tree you planted in your backyard could be an emblem of hope.

Example Sentences

That meant cutting off a coat’s emblem on the pocket, buttons and name tags in the lining, then taking what was left to a local funeral home for cremation.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

In the 1970s, Chicano artists in the U.S. adopted Kahlo as an emblem of their cultural pride and demand for equal rights.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

She zoomed in on the school blazer and began trying to locate the school through its emblem.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

After Porkchop swam off, several aquarium staffers gathered trash from the river, including roughly 20 golf balls, a Volkswagen car emblem, cut-up credit card, teal plastic line, a bottle cap.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

One of the Fashion Minister's attendants slides his ermine-lined robe from his shoulders, exposing a gold medallion with his royal minister emblem.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton

Related Words

• badge
• banner
• coat of arms
• flag
• image
• insignia
• logo
• marker
• memento
• motto
• reminder
• symbol
• trademark