Trophy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trophy

[หˆtrษ™สŠfi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

award

A prize or memento awarded for an achievement.

Synonyms

award, medal, prize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trophy

Typically used to refer to a physical object that represents victory or achievement in sports, contests, or competitions. Often involves something durable and larger, like a cup or statue.

  • The winning team hoisted the trophy high above their heads.
  • He proudly displayed the golf trophy on his mantel.
award

Generally used in a wider range of contexts, including academic, professional, and artistic achievements. It can be a physical object or simply an acknowledgment of excellence.

  • She received an award for her outstanding academic performance.
  • The film won several awards at the international film festival.
prize

Refers to a reward given to someone for winning a competition, lottery, or contest. It can be anything from money to a physical object or experience.

  • She won a cash prize in the art contest.
  • The grand prize is a trip to Hawaii.
medal

Usually refers to a small metal disc given as a prize or honor, commonly associated with accomplishments in sports, military, or academics.

  • He won a gold medal in the Olympic Games.
  • The soldier was given a medal for bravery.

Examples of usage

  • She won a trophy for being the top salesperson of the year.
  • The team proudly displayed their trophy in the trophy case.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

A decorative object awarded as a prize for a victory or success.

Synonyms

award, medal, prize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trophy

Used to refer to a physical object, often a decorated cup or figure, awarded especially as a symbol of victory in sports or competitions.

  • He proudly displayed his football trophy on the shelf.
  • Winning the tournament earned her a large gold trophy.
award

A general term for any kind of recognition given for achievements, which can be physical or ceremonial. Common in professional, academic, and artistic contexts.

  • She received an award for her outstanding research in biology.
  • The film won several awards at the international film festival.
prize

A reward given to someone for winning a competition, contest, or lottery, which can be money, an item, or a title. Often used in informal or general contexts.

  • The winner of the contest will receive a cash prize.
  • She won a prize for her beautiful painting.
medal

Refers to a small, flat piece of metal, usually circular, awarded to someone as a symbol of an achievement, often in sports, the military, or academic competitions.

  • He received a gold medal for winning first place in the race.
  • Her bravery during the mission earned her a military medal.

Examples of usage

  • The tennis player lifted the championship trophy in triumph.
  • The team hoisted the trophy in celebration.
Context #3 | Noun

trophy wife

A young, attractive wife regarded as a status symbol for an older man.

Synonyms

attractive partner, status symbol.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trophy

In a non-literal sense, it can refer to someone, often a partner, who is seen as a prize or symbol of success, typically carrying a somewhat negative implication of objectification.

  • He dated her because he wanted a trophy on his arm.
  • Some people view attractive partners as nothing more than trophies.
status symbol

Refers to an object or possession that is meant to signify oneโ€™s social position, wealth, or prestige.

  • Owning a luxury car can be seen as a status symbol.
  • His designer clothes are more of a status symbol than a necessity.
attractive partner

Describes a romantic partner who is very physically appealing or desirable. This term can be neutral, but sometimes it may carry an objectifying connotation.

  • She always dreamed of having an attractive partner who shares her interests.
  • He feels lucky to have found such an attractive partner.

Examples of usage

  • He married a much younger woman who was seen as his trophy wife.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • Many sports have prestigious trophies, for example, the Stanley Cup in hockey or the FIFA World Cup Trophy in soccer.
  • Trophies often come in different shapes and designs, each representing the unique history and significance of the sport.
  • Winning a trophy can be a major career highlight for athletes, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Cultural Significance

  • Trophies often serve as symbols of excellence and can inspire others to strive for similar achievements.
  • In some cultures, trophies are not just awards but also status symbols, reflecting competitions and social standings.
  • Schools and organizations often use trophies in awards ceremonies to celebrate achievements and encourage participation.

Psychology

  • Winning a trophy can boost self-esteem and motivation, reinforcing the idea that hard work leads to success.
  • Collecting trophies can also become a way for individuals to seek validation and recognition from peers and society.
  • Research shows that tangible rewards, like trophies, can enhance a child's interest in an activity, fostering a love for learning.

Literature

  • Trophies often symbolize victory or achievement in novels and stories, representing a character's goals and desires.
  • In many tales, the journey to win a trophy reflects deeper themes of perseverance, teamwork, and personal growth.
  • Authors sometimes use trophies as metaphors, hinting at the fleeting nature of success and the importance of the journey over the outcome.

Origin of 'trophy'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'trophy' comes from the Greek word 'tropaion,' which meant a monument erected to commemorate a victory.
  • Originally, trophies were made from the spoils of war, like weapons, to symbolize a military victory.
  • In medieval times, trophies became more about recognition for accomplishments in sports and games.

The word 'trophy' originated from the French word 'trophรฉe', which came from the Latin 'tropaeum', meaning a monument to victory. Originally used to describe a prize or reward for success in battle, the term has evolved to encompass a broader range of achievements and awards in various fields.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,886, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.