# totem

/ˈtoʊtəm/ (US) · /tˈəʊtəm/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a natural object or animal that a group of people sees as a special symbol for their family or tribe. It often represents a shared history or a spiritual connection.

For teachers: an object, animal, or plant serving as the emblem of a family or clan and often as a reminder of its ancestry. In a broader sociological sense, it refers to any symbol that serves as a focus for group identity.

## Examples

- The tribe carved a tall wooden totem to honor their ancestors.
- In many indigenous cultures, the eagle serves as a powerful totem representing courage and wisdom.
- The researcher argued that modern corporate logos often function as a secular totem, providing a sense of belonging and shared purpose to employees across different continents.

## Usage notes

- Often used metaphorically to describe any object that represents a group's values or identity.

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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.