as in reminder
something that serves to keep alive the memory of a person or event please accept this parting gift as a token of our lasting affection

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word token distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of token are mark, note, sign, and symptom. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

When might mark be a better fit than token?

In some situations, the words mark and token are roughly equivalent. However, mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When can note be used instead of token?

The words note and token can be used in similar contexts, but note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

When would sign be a good substitute for token?

While the synonyms sign and token are close in meaning, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

Where would symptom be a reasonable alternative to token?

The meanings of symptom and token largely overlap; however, symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

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 token Every extra word adds tokens for the model to process, and those tokens require computing power and electricity. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 21 Oct. 2025 Not as a token or an exception, but as someone who naturally belongs in these spaces. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 18 Oct. 2025 Contributors will have the option to receive the shirt as a token of appreciation. Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2025 Many startups will enter that wave with little more than whitepapers or speculative tokens. Sixteen Ramos, USA Today, 16 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for token
Recent Examples of Synonyms for token
Noun
  • Whitmer said the plaza being named after Nick Gilbert is a reminder that the center of Detroit's revival has always been love for family and community and hope for a brighter future.
    Natalie Davies, Freep.com, 7 Nov. 2025
  • At police District Two, where Corder worked, there’s a memorial to him that acts as a daily reminder for those officers.
    David Clarey, jsonline.com, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Cheney and his daughter were the only Republicans who attended a memorial the following year at the Capitol.
    Bart Jansen, USA Today, 4 Nov. 2025
  • Since his death, Hay has not remarried, but devoted her life to setting up scholarships and memorials in Burton’s name, including donating his diaries to Swansea University, per The Telegraph.
    Makena Gera, PEOPLE, 1 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Token.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/token. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

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