as in symbol
a device, design, or figure used as an identifying mark the bald eagle, that universally recognized totem of our country

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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 totem An example of this is the ritual league, which features totems that can spawn a group of challenging enemies. Diego Argüello, Rolling Stone, 6 Dec. 2024 Its totem was positioned in front of him, level with his mouth: a microphone. Ludovic Hunter-Tilney, New York Times, 24 Feb. 2025 Whether in front of his monitor or his vertical TV totem, Conor seeks endless distraction from the here and now. Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 31 Jan. 2025 Emerging from a need for an artistic outlet during a time of loss, the totems became symbolic talismans of her own transformation. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 12 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for totem
Recent Examples of Synonyms for totem
Noun
  • The Southern Poverty Law Center tracks Confederate symbols and memorials displayed in publica spaces and across the country.
    Deborah Barfield Berry, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2025
  • The illustration, which was styled to look like the cover of Time magazine, displayed the President’s fondness for crude symbols of power and wealth.
    Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 26 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Puerto Rico and its flag, often used as a heretical emblem and a canvas for the brand’s designs, were deeply influenced by Maldonado’s early exposure to the culture.
    Tiana Randall, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Its peaks have been emblazoned on the country’s national emblem and its name has been lent to everything from rockets to power stations and, occasionally, the country itself.
    Will Ripley, CNN Money, 15 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • This technology enables robots to identify recyclable materials by recognizing patterns in colors, textures, shapes and logos, spotting a stray plastic bottle in a sea of trash faster than any human.
    Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report, FOXNews.com, 19 Apr. 2025
  • Lynn’s Courrèges, meanwhile, look fantastic on her, what with their chunky block heels and logo over the square-ish toe.
    Mark Holgate, Vogue, 17 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The campaign is predictably Trumpian, built on a flagrantly pretextual basis and executed with the sort of vicious but chaotic idiocy that has always been a hallmark of the authoritarian mind.
    Ars Staff, ArsTechnica, 17 Apr. 2025
  • The parade is still alive and well today and is one of the hallmarks of Fiesta.
    Jill Robbins, Southern Living, 16 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • While Markle didn't address potential trademark issues, experts told Fox News Digital that the duchess missed an opportunity to appear more relatable.
    Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 28 Apr. 2025
  • The premium deodorant body spray and fragrance company AXE has just unveiled its latest campaign with daring comedian and actor Pete Davidson, bringing his trademark wit, authenticity, and underdog charm to the brand’s mission of helping guys feel their best.
    Cassell Ferere, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Totem.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/totem. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

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