insignia

[ in-sig-nee-uh ]

noun

, formally a plural of insigne, but usually used as a singular with plural in·sig·ni·a or in·sig·ni·as.

1. a badge or distinguishing mark of office or honor:

   a military insignia.

2. a distinguishing mark or sign of anything:

   an insignia of mourning.

insignia

/ ɪnˈsɪɡnɪə /

noun

1. a badge or emblem of membership, office, or dignity
2. a distinguishing sign or mark

Usage Note

Insignia, originally the plural of Latin insigne, began to be used as a singular in the 18th century, and the plural insignias appeared shortly thereafter. All uses— insignia as a singular or plural and insignias as a plural—are fully standard. The singular insigne still occurs, but insignia is more common.

Word History and Origins

Origin of insignia¹

1640–50; < Latin, plural of insigne mark, badge, noun use of neuter of insignis distinguished (by a mark); in- ², sign

Word History and Origins

Origin of insignia¹

C17: from Latin: marks, badges, from insignis distinguished by a mark, prominent, from in- ² + signum mark

Example Sentences

The ceramic wreath, with the King's insignia at the centre, was hand-made by prisoners, a number of whom are ex-servicemen.

From BBC

On Tuesday, the FBI said in a news release that a fabricated video using its name and insignia falsely stated that Americans should “‘vote remotely’ due to a high terror threat at polling locations.”

From Los Angeles Times

As voting got underway, the FBI warned that its name and insignia were being used in two fake news clips, including one that falsely claimed the FBI was urging people to vote remotely because of a terrorist threat.

From Los Angeles Times

Piotr Kucharski, 49, from The Glebe, Watford, wore combat clothing and badges with insignia of the Russian mercenary group to the historical event in Stonham Aspal, Suffolk.

From BBC

Downey resident Carlos Interiano strolled proudly through Union Station en route to the Dodger Stadium celebration wearing a black cap with the L.A. insignia, a white jersey and the Dodgers’ logo emblazoned in gold across his chest.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• badge
• coat of arms
• decoration
• ensign
• paraphernalia
• regalia
• symbol