badge
9 synonyms for badge, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A small emblem, pin, or card worn to show rank, identity, membership, or achievement.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use badge
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
wear a badge
security badge
badge of honor
Etymology
From Middle English badge, borrowed from an Anglo-Norman or Medieval Latin word for an emblem or sign, of uncertain deeper origin.
Full origin of badge →Frequently asked questions
What does “badge” mean?
The word “badge” means a small emblem, pin, or card worn to show rank, identity, membership, or achievement. In plain terms, a marker — physical or digital — worn or displayed to show who you are, what you belong to, or what you've achieved.
How do you pronounce “badge”?
“Badge” is pronounced baj (/bæd͡ʒ/ in IPA).
How do you use “badge” in a sentence?
Here is “badge” used in a sentence: “Every employee must wear a photo badge in the building.”
What is another word for “badge”?
Words with a similar meaning to “badge” include emblem, keycard or ID card or access card and pin.
What part of speech is “badge”?
Depending on how it is used, “badge” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “badge” come from?
The word “badge” comes from Medieval Latin. From Middle English badge, borrowed from an Anglo-Norman or Medieval Latin word for an emblem or sign, of uncertain deeper origin.
Is “badge” a common word?
“Badge” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “badge” have?
“Badge” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small emblem, pin, or card worn to show rank, identity, membership, or achievement.
What is the difference between a badge and a pin?
A badge is worn specifically to show rank, identity, membership, or achievement, such as a police badge or a name badge. A pin is any small ornament fastened through clothing, and it may be purely decorative. Many badges take the form of pins, but not every pin functions as a badge.
What is the difference between a badge and an emblem?
An emblem is a symbolic design that represents an organization, idea, or nation, and it can appear anywhere from flags to letterheads. A badge is a physical object — a small emblem, pin, or card — worn on the body to show who someone is or what they have achieved. In short, an emblem is a design, while a badge is the wearable item that often carries one.
Can badge be used as a verb?
Yes. In workplace English, to badge in or badge into a building means to gain entry to a restricted area by showing or scanning an identification badge. For example: "Visitors must badge in at the main entrance."
