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

Other Word Forms

• emblematic adjective
• emblematically 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

While the animal still graces flags and emblems, it is technically extinct in California, according to the California Capitol Museum.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Earlier in the day, the actor seen as a Gen Z emblem rolled up in a white Ford pickup truck with “Red Light Spells Danger,” a 1970s Billy Ocean song, blasting out the windows.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He told me about this 1968 Dodge Charger R/T he had seen with emblems of the Cincinnati Bengals football team.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Just look at San Francisco, long seen as a dysfunctional emblem of failed progressive governance.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The swastika symbol, which was the emblem of the German Nazi political party, was also spray painted on public spaces in Maesteg, Bridgend county, in September, with a police investigation launched.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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