emblem
emblem Lexical Profile
emblem Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A heraldic device or visual object functioning as a distinctive badge for a nation, organization, or family.
"The bald eagle was officially adopted as the national emblem of the United States in 1782."
A person or thing serving as a symbolic representation of a particular abstract quality, state, or concept.
"For many historical writers, the anchor served as an emblem of hope and steadfastness during turbulent times."
Word Nuance & Usage
While often used interchangeably with 'symbol', an 'emblem' typically refers to a specific, stylized visual design—such as a badge, crest, or logo—officially adopted to represent an entity or organization.
Word Origin & Etymology
From Latin 'emblema' (inlaid work, mosaic), derived from Greek 'emblēma' (insertion), from the verb 'emballein' (to insert, throw in). It originally referred to an allegorical picture or ornament before evolving into its modern sense of a representative badge.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.