Definition

1. Noun:
   • A V-shaped pattern or design: A chevron is a shape consisting of two straight lines meeting at an angle, typically pointing upwards or downwards, resembling an inverted "V" or a series of such shapes.
   • A military insignia: A chevron is a badge in the shape of a V or an inverted V, worn on the sleeve of a uniform to indicate a soldier's rank or length of service.
   • A heraldic charge: In heraldry, a chevron is a broad, inverted V-shaped band that is one of the ordinaries (simple geometrical figures) on a coat of arms.

Examples of Usage

• As a pattern or design:

  • The road was marked with yellow chevrons to guide drivers through the curve.
  • The fabric had a repeating pattern of blue and white chevrons.

• As a military or service insignia:

  • The sergeant proudly displayed three chevrons on his uniform sleeve.
  • In many armies, a chevron denotes a corporal or sergeant rank.

• In heraldry:

  • The family crest featured a red chevron on a field of gold.

Advanced Usage

• "To earn one's chevrons": To gain rank, experience, or recognition through service, especially in a military context. This is analogous to "earning one's stripes."
  • He earned his chevrons during years of dedicated service in difficult postings.

Variants and Related Words

• Chevroned (adj): Marked with or having chevrons.
  • The chevroned pattern on the wall added a dynamic visual element.

Synonyms

• V-shaped insignia: For the military context.
• Stripe: Often used informally for a rank insignia, though a stripe is typically a straight bar.
• Inverted V: A descriptive synonym for the shape.

Related Phrases

• Chevron pattern: A decorative design consisting of a series of connected V-shapes.
  • The new tile floor was laid in a classic chevron pattern.

Related Idioms

• To earn one's stripes/chevrons: To prove one's ability or gain experience through hard work and time spent in a role.
  • She really earned her chevrons managing that high-pressure project.

Noun

1. an inverted V-shaped charge
2. V-shaped sleeve badge indicating military rank and service
   • they earned their stripes in Kuwait