Definition of: emblem

(em′bləm) noun
1. An object suggesting something which it does not directly represent; a figurative representation; symbol.
2. A distinctive badge; ensign.
3. An allegorical picture, usually having a motto.
4. Obs. An inlaid or inserted ornament.
—v.t. Rare To emblematize. [<L emblema inlaid work <Gk. emblēma an insertion <em- in + ballein throw] Synonyms: attribute, figure, sign, symbol, token, type. An emblem has some natural fitness to suggest that for which it stands; a symbol has been chosen or agreed upon to suggest something else, with or without natural fitness; a sign does actually suggest the thing with or without reason, and with or without intention or choice. A symbol may be also an emblem. On the other hand, the same thing may be both a sign and a symbol; a letter of the alphabet is a sign which indicates a sound; but letters are often used as mathematical, chemical, or astronomical symbols. A token is some object given or act done as a pledge or expression of feeling or intent; a ring, the natural emblem of eternity, and also its accepted symbol, is frequently given as a token of friendship or love. Compare FIGURE, IMAGE, LETTER, SIGN.