B2noun2K

Badge

UK /["/bædʒ/"]/US /["/bædʒ/"]/

Definition

a small piece of metal or plastic, with a design or words on it, that a person wears or carries to show that they belong to an organization, support something, have achieved something, have a particular rank, etc.

In simple words: A small object that shows someone has done something special, like an achievement.

Examples

  • She wore a badge saying ‘Vote for Coates’.
  • All employees have to wear name badges.
  • He pulled out a badge and said he was a cop.
  • parking for disabled badge holders
  • The police officer flashed his badge.
  • the school badge
  • He saw his injuries as a badge of honour.
  • For some consultants, a waiting list was a badge of status.
  • Her badge of office, a large gold key, hung around her neck.

Usage notes

Used in contexts where achievements or memberships are recognized, like in schools or organizations. Not typically used in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

noun + badge (e.g. 'merit badge')

Memory hint

Think of 'badge' as a signal—'badges signal achievements!'

Collocations

  • name
  • police
  • merit
  • wear
  • display
  • flash
  • holder
  • holder
  • a badge of honour/​honor
  • a badge of office
  • name
  • police
  • merit
  • wear
  • display
  • flash
  • holder
  • holder
  • a badge of honour/​honor
  • a badge of office
  • name
  • police
  • merit
  • wear
  • display
  • flash
  • holder
  • holder
  • a badge of honour/​honor
  • a badge of office

Synonyms

  • emblem
  • insignia
  • trophy
  • mark
  • sticker

Antonyms

  • disguise
  • cover
  • mask

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'bade' which is a past tense of bid.
  • Sometimes spelled as 'badgee'.
  • Used interchangeably with 'pin' although they have different meanings.