as in symbol
a device, design, or figure used as an identifying mark
the bald eagle, that universally recognized totem of our country
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of totem
Emerging from a need for an artistic outlet during a time of loss, the totems became symbolic talismans of her own transformation.
—
Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 12 Oct. 2024
An emblem of hope becomes a totem of governmental mistrust.
—Alexis Coe, Rolling Stone, 20 Mar. 2025
Despite being afraid of heights, Stern recently completed eight-foot totems depicting the lives of a man and a woman.
—Remy Tumin, New York Times, 24 Dec. 2024
His uncle, another mentor and artist, was a totem carver, canoe maker and jeweler.
—Greg Allen, NPR, 5 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for totem
Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 12 Oct. 2024
An emblem of hope becomes a totem of governmental mistrust.
—Alexis Coe, Rolling Stone, 20 Mar. 2025
Despite being afraid of heights, Stern recently completed eight-foot totems depicting the lives of a man and a woman.
—Remy Tumin, New York Times, 24 Dec. 2024
His uncle, another mentor and artist, was a totem carver, canoe maker and jeweler.
—Greg Allen, NPR, 5 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for totem
Recent Examples of Synonyms for totem
Noun
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Experts have long debated the meaning of the 4-inch sculpture, though it is widely regarded to have been seen as a symbol of attractiveness and fertility.—
Rosa Rahimi,
CNN Money,
2 Apr. 2025
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For Morris, the moon isn’t just a celestial body with a cratered, rocky surface, but a symbol of human vision and yearning.—
Leslie Katz,
Forbes.com,
2 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Rescue workers, at least two of whom can be seen wearing uniforms, are seen exiting a fire truck and an ambulance marked with the emblem of the Red Crescent and approaching the ambulance derailed to the side.—
Farnaz Fassihi,
New York Times,
5 Apr. 2025
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Each movement is engraved with an emblem representing Vacheron Constantin’s 270th anniversary.—
Fairchild Studio,
Footwear News,
2 Apr. 2025
Noun
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The Solana logo on a phone screen and representation of cryptocurrencies are seen in this photo taken in Krakow, Poland, Aug. 21, 2021.—
Tanaya Macheel,
CNBC,
7 Apr. 2025
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From rainbow logos during Pride Month to high-profile donations to advocacy groups, companies are increasingly taking public stances on controversial social issues.—
Shane Enete,
Forbes.com,
7 Apr. 2025
Noun
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The ability to grind through long hours is a hallmark of great leaders.—
Alla Adam,
Forbes.com,
3 Apr. 2025
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The meticulous craftsmanship that has been the hallmark of our heritage continues to define our collections, ensuring that each piece reflects the excellence passed down through generations.—
Fairchild Studio,
Footwear News,
2 Apr. 2025
Noun
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The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board determined that DC Swim Week-Miami Swim Week The Shows had improperly registered the Miami Swim Week trademark and its use of the phrase was causing consumer confusion, the company said.—
Lisa Lockwood,
Footwear News,
3 Apr. 2025
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Jason Kelce is already showing his newest little one his trademark sense of humor.—
Hannah Sacks,
People.com,
2 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Totem.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/totem. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.
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