B2noun1K

Icon

UK /["/ˈaɪkɒn/"]/US /["/ˈaɪkɑːn/"]/

Definition

a small symbol on a computer or smartphone screen that represents a program or a file

In simple words: A person or thing that represents something famous or important.

Examples

  • Click on the printer icon with the mouse.
  • Tap the app icon on your phone to open it.
  • Did you click on the icon next to the name of the file?
  • I dragged the icon into the recycle bin.
  • Madonna and other pop icons of the 1980s
  • a **feminist/gay icon** *(= somebody that feminists/gay people admire)*
  • Sandra has become a style icon, for the fashion world particularly.

Usage notes

Use 'icon' to describe someone or something that is widely recognized and admired. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but be cautious not to overuse it in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

noun + is an icon

Memory hint

Think of an 'icon' as something that shines brightly, like a star in the sky.

Collocations

  • desktop
  • folder
  • network
  • click on
  • double-click on
  • right-click on
  • national
  • popular
  • cultural

Synonyms

  • symbol
  • figure
  • celebrity
  • legend
  • hero

Antonyms

  • nobody
  • nonentity
  • unknown

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'icon' with 'idol'; an icon can be a symbol, while an idol is typically a person.
  • Using 'icon' in a religious context without clarification; it can lead to misunderstandings.
  • Saying 'an icon' before plural nouns, which is incorrect as 'icon' is singular.