Definition

1. Noun:
   • A visible symbol representing an abstract idea: An object or image that serves as a symbolic representation of a concept, quality, or ideal.
   • A special design or visual object representing a quality, type, group, etc.: A distinctive badge, logo, or heraldic device that identifies and represents a nation, organization, family, or concept.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The dove is an emblem of peace. (The dove is a symbol representing the abstract idea of peace.)
  • The company's emblem is recognized worldwide. (The company's distinctive logo is known globally.)
  • The scales of justice are a traditional emblem of law and fairness. (The scales are a visual symbol for the legal system.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be an emblem of something": to serve as a perfect or typical symbol of a particular quality or situation.
  • Her resilience became an emblem of hope for the community. (Her strength became a powerful symbol representing hope.)
• "national emblem": the official symbol of a country, often featured on its coat of arms, flag, or seal.
  • The bald eagle is the national emblem of the United States. (The bald eagle is the official symbolic bird of the USA.)

Variants and Related Words

• Emblematic (adj): Serving as a symbol of a particular quality or concept; representative.
  • The cracked Liberty Bell is emblematic of the American struggle for independence.
• Emblematically (adv): In a way that serves as a symbol.
  • The scene is emblematically charged with meaning.

Synonyms

• Symbol: A mark or character used as a conventional representation of an object, function, or process.
• Badge: A distinctive emblem worn as a mark of office, membership, achievement, or licensed employment.
• Insignia: A distinguishing badge or emblem of military rank, office, or membership of an organization.
• Logo: A symbol or other design adopted by an organization to identify its products, uniform, vehicles, etc.
• Crest: A distinctive device representing a family or corporate body, borne above the shield of a coat of arms or separately.

Idioms and Phrases

• "Wear something as a badge/emblem of honor": To display or treat something (often a scar or criticism) as proof of one's principles or experience, rather than being ashamed of it.
  • He wore his political dissent as an emblem of his integrity. (He considered his dissent to be a symbol of his honest character.)

Noun

1. a visible symbol representing an abstract idea
2. special design or visual object representing a quality, type, group, etc.