Insignia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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insignia
[ɪnˈsɪɡniə ]
Definition
official symbol
An insignia is an official symbol or design that represents a particular organization or rank. It is often worn on clothing or displayed on flags.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| insignia |
Primarily used to describe official symbols that signify rank, affiliation, or membership, especially in military or governmental contexts.
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| emblem |
Generally used to describe a symbol, sign, or figure that represents something, often an abstract quality, idea, or concept, like organizations, nations, or beliefs.
|
| badge |
Commonly used to refer to a small piece of metal, plastic, or cloth, often with a name or symbol, worn to show someone’s identity or affiliation with an organization. It is also widely used in police contexts.
|
| crest |
Typically refers to a decorative emblem or heraldic device, often used by families, institutions, or organizations, and seen on shields, flags, or coats of arms.
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Examples of usage
- The military officer proudly displayed his insignia on his uniform.
- The company logo serves as the insignia of quality and trust.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Military
- In military contexts, insignia are used to denote ranks and qualifications, allowing for easy recognition of an individual’s position.
- Different countries have unique styles of insignia—U.S. military ranks are often marked by chevrons or stars.
Cultural Significance
- Many organizations, like schools and sports teams, create distinct insignia to foster unity and pride among their members.
- In heraldry, insignia are often depicted on coats of arms, highlighting lineage and achievements.
Pop Culture
- In films and television, insignia often appear on uniforms, helping viewers instantly understand a character's role or affiliation.
- Popular franchises like Star Trek and Star Wars utilize unique insignias that fans recognize and associate with their favorite characters and factions.
Psychology
- Insignia can influence group identity, as they often provide members with a sense of belonging and loyalty.
- Research shows that wearing specific insignia can boost individuals' self-esteem by promoting a positive group identity.
Origin of 'insignia'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'insignia', which means 'mark' or 'emblem'.
- Insignia has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally in reference to royal or military symbols.
The word 'insignia' originated from the Latin word 'insignis', meaning 'distinguished' or 'remarkable'. The use of insignia dates back to ancient times when they were used to signify power, authority, or membership in a group. Over the centuries, insignia have evolved to represent various organizations, ranks, and achievements.