chevron

noun

chev·​ron ˈshev-rən 

: a figure, pattern, or object having the shape of a V or an inverted V: such as

a

: a heraldic charge consisting of two diagonal stripes meeting at an angle usually with the point up

b

: a sleeve badge that usually consists of one or more chevron-shaped stripes that indicates the wearer's rank and service (as in the armed forces)

Illustration of chevron

• 1 marine staff sergeant
• 2 air force staff sergeant
• 3 army staff sergeant

Did you know?

First appearing in English in the 14th century, chevron derives via Middle English and Anglo-French from the Vulgar Latin word caprio, meaning "rafter (probably due to its resemblance to two adjoining roof beams)." It is also related to the Latin noun caper, meaning "goat," again likely based on the resemblance of a V-shape to a goat’s horns. "Caper" is also an ancestor of "Capricorn," the tenth sign of the zodiac, represented by a goat. The resemblance of "chevron" to "chèvre," the French word for "goat" and our word for a kind of cheese that comes from goat’s milk, is no coincidence, as that word derives from "caper" as well.

Examples of chevron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Typically paired with stark white—and often incorporated in the form of bold stripes or a chevron pattern—the combination lacks sophistication and looks outdated instead of fun and fresh. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Apr. 2026

Think black-and-white chevron trellis and quatrefoil patterns. —Cori Sears, The Spruce, 3 Apr. 2026

The doughnut is finished with a cookies-and-creme-flavored buttercream dollop and a red chevron nod to the NASA logo. —Greta Cross, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026

This tumbler’s design pays homage to the original Barbie doll, manufactured in 1959 and wearing a black-and-white vintage chevron swimsuit. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 26 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English cheveron, from Anglo-French, rafter, chevron, from Vulgar Latin *caprion-, *caprio rafter; akin to Latin caper goat

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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Kids Definition

chevron

noun

chev·​ron ˈshev-rən 

1

: a figure resembling a V or an upside-down V

2

: a sleeve badge indicating rank (as in the armed forces)