medal

noun

ˈme-dᵊl How to pronounce medal (audio)
Definition of medalnext
as in decoration
a piece of metal given in honor of a special event, a person, or an achievement the display case held an impressive array of military medals from World War II

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of medal The general had been inspired to join the Marine Corps, in part, after seeing Capers on a recruiting poster in his dress blues with a chest full of medals. — Ethan Rocke, Charlotte Observer, 20 Aug. 2026 The Mint is also releasing special numismatic coins and medals throughout 2026 featuring unique designs and enhancements. — Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 20 Aug. 2026 The back room at Elite Sports Performance began to fill with trophies and medals. — Molly Hensley-Clancy, ProPublica, 20 Aug. 2026 In Los Angeles in March, warm conditions prompted race organizers to give runners the option of stopping after 18 miles and still receiving a finishers medal. — Scott McFetridge, Los Angeles Times, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for medal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for medal
  1. decoration
  2. insignia
  3. trophy
  4. medallion
Noun
  • The Navy is reportedly planning to recommend Miller’s name for the Medal of Honor—the country’s highest military decoration for acts of valor—although the final award would need to be approved by Congress.
    — Siladitya Ray, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • All the signs that summer is winding down are here — kids heading back to school, the days getting shorter and Halloween decorations taking over stores.
    — Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of decoration
Noun
  • First up is Monogram Dune, which shows off the LV’s iconic insignia in a warm beige.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Competitive admission to the academy, rank insignia on every uniform, exactly one captain per ship.
    — Gautam Mukunda, Mercury News, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of insignia
Noun
  • Eto’o was once one of the best players in the world, scoring countless goals and winning major trophies for the likes of Barcelona, Inter Milan, Chelsea and Real Madrid.
    — Amanda Davies, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
  • The trophy that matters most, however — outstanding reality-competition program — has eluded it since the Television Academy created the category.
    — Clayton Davis, Variety, 24 Aug. 2026
Definition of trophy
Noun
  • Sun Devil Necklace A reversible medallion in gold or silver that flips from pitchfork to ASU, because school spirit should work both ways.
    — Trisha Easto, AZCentral.com, 14 Aug. 2026
  • The first offerings will include pieces inspired by Byzantine artworks including imperial medallions, architectural ornaments, and statuary.
    — Andy Battaglia, ARTnews.com, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of medallion

Browse Nearby Words

mechanizing
medal
medalist
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Cite this Entry

“Medal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/medal. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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