emblem

[ em-bluhm ]

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.

verb (used with object)

1. to represent with an emblem.

emblem

/ 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

Derived Forms

• ˌemblemˈatic, adjective
• ˌemblemˈatically, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of emblem¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of emblem¹

C15: from Latin emblēma raised decoration, mosaic, from Greek, literally: something inserted, from emballein to insert, from ballein to throw

Example Sentences

As regional emblems go, only the palm tree seems to rival the bird of paradise in popularity.

From Los Angeles Times

She then addressed the American, Canadian and British legions to ask for the poppy to be acknowledged as Remembrance emblem.

From BBC

Also receiving an emblem will be the families of PC Andrew Harper and firefighter Leslie Marsh.

From BBC

A volunteer presented her with a bouquet of white orchids — her campaign’s official flower — and red roses, the emblem of the Democratic Socialists of America, which supported her campaign.

From Los Angeles Times

Home ownership, the traditional emblem of middle-class prosperity, collapsed on a grand scale, and some Americans began to realize that maybe they weren't middle class after all.

From Salon

Related Words

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