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

The jersey also features decorative stitching with chevrons, inspired in part by South Florida’s military heritage, and a rear hem loop that features the silhouette of the Panthers’ rat, which honors the team’s tradition of throwing rats onto the ice after home victories. —Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 21 Nov. 2025

Horacio Pagani and the Pagani Arte team developed materials specifically for the two penthouses—light oak chevron parquet with metal inlays, slabs of travertine, and a swirling sculptural staircase that echoes the curves and metalwork found in the company’s cars. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 15 Nov. 2025

Each bottle features intricate details inspired by elements from the château, from cobblestone patterns to sun motifs to chevron flooring. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 6 Nov. 2025

There are the usual prewar details — chevron hardwoods and original moldings throughout — but also modern ones, too, like an in-unit washer-dryer. —Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 3 Nov. 2025

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)