medal

American  

[med-l] / ˈmɛd l /

noun

1. a flat piece of metal, often a disk but sometimes a cross, star, or other form, usually bearing an inscription or design, issued to commemorate a person, action, or event, or given as a reward for bravery, merit, or the like.

   a gold medal for the best swimmer.

2. a similar object bearing a religious image, as of a saint.

   a Saint Christopher's medal.

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verb (used with object)

medaled, medaling, medalled, medalling

1. to decorate or honor with a medal.

verb (used without object)

medaled, medaling, medalled, medalling

1. to receive a medal, especially in a sporting event.

   He medaled in three of four races.

medal British  

/ mɪˈdælɪk, ˈmɛdəl /

noun

1. a small flat piece of metal bearing an inscription or image, given as an award or commemoration of some outstanding action, event, etc

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verb

1. (tr) to honour with a medal

2. informal (intr) (in sport) to win a medal

Other Word Forms

• medallic
  adjective
• unmedaled
  adjective
• unmedalled
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of medal

1580–90; earlier medaille < Middle French < Italian medaglia copper coin worth a halfpenny < Vulgar Latin *medalia, variant (by dissimilation) of Late Latin mediālia, noun use of neuter plural (taken as feminine singular) of mediālis medial

Explanation

A medal is an award for some contest or achievement. You might win a medal for coming in third place at the cupcake baking championship. A medal is often a flat piece of metal that's stamped with an inscription or design and is given in honor of winning a race, serving in battle, or another remarkable accomplishment. Scholars, athletes, and soldiers all might win medals. Originally, a medal was a "trinket," and it wasn't until the 18th century that it began to mean "reward for merit."

Example Sentences

Shortly before Gradel died April 28 at the age of 61, the museum presented him with its British Museum medal in appreciation for his efforts.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

Starring in a Broadway production at 96, Squibb deserves a medal, not just for longevity but for discernment and daring as well.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

But throughout it all, a commitment to cross the finish line and get that all important medal has remained.

From BBC • May 3, 2026

In sudden-death overtime against Sweden in the quarterfinals, Hughes waved off a substitution just before burying the game-winner that kept his country’s medal dreams alive.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 3, 2026

If so, did that mean his team lost another medal?

From "Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics" by Chris Grabenstein

Related Words

• gold
• reward