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

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 totem As a result, his compositions have become strange totems of the internet, like global ringtones. Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 30 July 2026 Harper’s extra glove might be more of a totem than a practical need, but there’s little reason to doubt that the franchise slugger would go to great lengths to secure a career-first World Series championship. Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 There, he’s attacked by The Denied, a militia group of non-benders who feel like second-class citizens in this world seeking an old totem of a prior Avatar known as Sonam. Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 20 July 2026 The shrinekeeper greets bar patrons, gives them nicknames, will learn to recognize regulars, plays games of chess alone and with guests, and accepts tips that manifest into permanent flora or small totems within the microcosm of the work. Gabriella Angeleti, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for totem
Recent Examples of Synonyms for totem
Noun
  • The musicians formed symbols across the field as the performance unfolded, drawing the crowd’s attention away from football and toward one of the traditions that has made FAMU recognizable far beyond Tallahassee.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 7 Sep. 2026
  • Governments on both sides of the Channel have hailed its loan as a symbol of a Franco-British friendship.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Later, when offices overtook factories as the emblem of work, efficiency became more abstract.
    Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 4 Sep. 2026
  • Begin at the Fountain of Neptune, whose trident inspired the emblem Mario Maserati designed for the company, first used in 1926.
    Melinda Sheckells, HollywoodReporter, 2 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Carlos gets the signature Luar treatment, with his custom design featuring a logo tank, distressed denim jeans, Adrian Oxford loafers and a Cam messenger bag.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 Sep. 2026
  • The new agreement will see SumUp’s logo on United’s kit for their return to the Champions League against Sabah on Thursday.
    Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • These included starts, mark-room decisions and, above all, the ability to fight back through the fleet after a poor start, something which has become a hallmark of the Spanish in more recent years.
    Andrew Rice, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026
  • In addition to sculptural styles, which have become a hallmark of the label, Vettese will also be introducing her first handbag, said to be inspired by her signature hip corset.
    Emily Mercer, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Totem.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/totem. Accessed 14 Sep. 2026.

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