logos

American  

[loh-gos, -gohs, log-os] / ˈloʊ gɒs, -goʊs, ˈlɒg ɒs /

noun

1. (often initial capital letter) the rational principle that governs and develops the universe.

2. Theology. the divine word or reason incarnate in Jesus Christ. John 1:1–14.

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Logos ¹ British  

/ ˈlɒɡɒs /

noun

1. Christian theol the divine Word; the second person of the Trinity incarnate in the person of Jesus

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logos ² British  

/ ˈlɒɡɒs /

noun

1. philosophy reason or the rational principle expressed in words and things, argument, or justification; esp personified as the source of order in the universe

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Etymology

Origin of logos

First recorded in 1580–90; from Greek lógos “word, saying; speech, discourse; thought, reckoning; proportion, ratio,” derivative of légein “to choose, gather; recount, tell over, speak”; lection

Compare meaning

How does logos compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• ethos vs. logos

Example Sentences

Polymarket reportedly secured an exclusive multiyear partnership with Major League Baseball for team logos.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

This means they can use logos to describe the products they are selling, but can’t plaster them all over their advertising campaigns or social-media content.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 24, 2026

The surface is painted white and sealed, with ice hockey markings and logos added.

From BBC • Feb. 10, 2026

Forty participants were asked to remember pairings between logos and brand names.

From Science Daily • Feb. 3, 2026

In the use of commonplaces, you can see where logos and ethos intersect.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith