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
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Recent Examples of totem
Thanks to the airtight synchronicity between its literal value as a totem tying the Friedkens to Anna’s death, but as a symbol of the sins and circumstantial mistakes that emanate from a family broken by a cutthroat society.
—
Andy Andersen, Vulture, 19 Sep. 2025
These twin totems of American indie film remain a huge part of Redford’s legacy, not to mention an ode to his commitment to fostering the future of the medium.
—David Fear, Rolling Stone, 16 Sep. 2025
Ketchikan adds totem heritage, creek-side boardwalks and salmon runs right through town.
—Jill Schildhouse, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
There are garments worn by clergy in the late 18th century and religious totems, and items used by explorers from around the same general time period: a saddle, a tobacco pouch, a cooking griddle, and things like a pistol and gunpowder horn.
—Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 4 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for totem
Andy Andersen, Vulture, 19 Sep. 2025
These twin totems of American indie film remain a huge part of Redford’s legacy, not to mention an ode to his commitment to fostering the future of the medium.
—David Fear, Rolling Stone, 16 Sep. 2025
Ketchikan adds totem heritage, creek-side boardwalks and salmon runs right through town.
—Jill Schildhouse, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
There are garments worn by clergy in the late 18th century and religious totems, and items used by explorers from around the same general time period: a saddle, a tobacco pouch, a cooking griddle, and things like a pistol and gunpowder horn.
—Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 4 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for totem
Recent Examples of Synonyms for totem
Noun
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The food allergy community and parents of children with autism have adopted the teal and blue, respectively, as symbols to promote awareness and inclusivity while trick-or-treating.—
Ingrid Vasquez,
PEOPLE,
31 Oct. 2025
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Explore the symbols, stories and customs of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) through interactive crafts and activities.—
Debra Skodack,
Kansas City Star,
30 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
Each coaster has an etching of something that is uniquely Louisville, from the city's skyline to its many pronunciations and the Fleur-de-lis emblem.—
Olivia Evans,
Louisville Courier Journal,
3 Nov. 2025
-
His campaign emblem is a crane, symbolizing the construction boom of recent years.—
Robert F. Worth,
The Atlantic,
28 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
The bright blue hat showcases the white, raised embroidery of the Los Angeles Dodgers logo.—
Izzy Baskette,
PEOPLE,
31 Oct. 2025
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That left employees staring for a few minutes at the bright red Target bullseye logo on the call’s background while the issue was being resolved, said one of the people, who asked not to be identified discussing internal matters.—
Dave Smith,
Fortune,
30 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
Quince Italian Leather Drawstring Pouch Crossbody The more budget-conscious crossbody has all the hallmarks of a designer bag.—
Shea Simmons,
PEOPLE,
30 Oct. 2025
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The hallmark of every overnight shed or self-care day, the best face hydrogel masks create a hydrating, occlusive environment that helps the skin absorb active ingredients more effectively.—
Iman Balagam,
Vogue,
30 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Totem.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/totem. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.
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