totem
noun
- among some peoples, an animal or natural object considered as being ancestrally related to a given kin or descent group and taken as its symbol
- an image of this
- a symbol, esp. one held in high regard
See totem in American Heritage Dictionary 4
(tōˈtəm)
nouna. An animal, plant, or natural object serving among certain tribal or traditional peoples as the emblem of a clan or family and sometimes revered as its founder, ancestor, or guardian.
b. A representation of such an object.
c. A social group having a common affiliation to such an object.
- A venerated emblem or symbol: “grew up with the totems and taboos typical of an Irish Catholic kid in Boston” (Connie Paige).
Related Forms:
- to·temˈic (-tĕmˈĭk) adjective
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