# medallion

/məˈdæɫjən/ (US) · /mədˈæliən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/medallion
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a piece of jewelry shaped like a large coin, often worn on a chain around the neck. It can also be a round metal award given to someone for doing something great.

For teachers: a large medal or coin-shaped piece of jewellery, typically worn as a pendant. In architectural or artistic contexts, refers to a circular decorative element or tablet containing a portrait or ornament.

## Examples

- He wore a gold medallion over his black sweater.
- The winner of the marathon proudly displayed her bronze medallion to the cheering crowd.
- The ceiling of the ballroom was decorated with intricate plaster medallions, each depicting a different scene from classical mythology.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in jewellery contexts or to describe architectural ornaments.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.