Definition

Noun: 1. A band worn around the arm: A strip or loop of material, often cloth, worn around the upper arm. Its primary purpose is typically decorative, symbolic, or for identification, rather than for support or compression.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The dancers wore colorful arm bands as part of their traditional costume.
  • At the conference, security personnel were identified by a black arm band.
  • He wore a simple black arm band in mourning.

Advanced Usage

• Symbolic Use: An arm band is often used to signify membership, allegiance, or to convey a message (e.g., mourning, protest, support for a cause).
  • Protesters wore green arm bands to show solidarity with the movement.
• Functional Identification: In events or large venues, arm bands can serve as tickets, passes, or to identify staff, participants, or specific groups.
  • Your VIP arm band grants you access to the backstage area.

Variants and Related Words

• Armband (noun): A common alternative spelling, written as one word. It has the same meaning.
  • Please ensure your armband is visible at all times.
• Brassard (noun): A more formal term, often used for an arm band bearing insignia, especially in military, official, or ceremonial contexts.
  • The officer's rank was displayed on his brassard.

Synonyms

• Band: A general term for a flat, thin strip or loop of material.
• Sleeve band: A less common term specifying location.
• Brassard: (See Variants and Related Words).

Notes on Meaning

• Distinction from Medical/Support Bands: An "arm band" in this context is distinct from a compression sleeve or a fitness tracker worn on the arm. Its core function is decoration or symbolism.
• Material: While often made of cloth, arm bands can also be made of plastic, paper, or other materials depending on their purpose (e.g., a disposable paper arm band for a festival).

Noun

1. a band worn around the arm for decoration