trophy

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. something you keep to show that you were successful or defeated an enemy.

n. an object taken as a prize by a conqueror or hunter, often displayed as a sign of prowess or victory.

“The hunter kept the deer's antlers as a trophy on his wall.”

“The victorious army returned with captured banners and weapons to serve as trophies of their successful campaign.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Informal

n. a person or thing that someone has just to show off their wealth or success.

n. an emblem of success or a status symbol, often used to describe a person or object acquired to enhance one's social standing.

“He bought the expensive sports car as a trophy to show off his new wealth.”

“The term 'trophy wife' is often used pejoratively to describe a spouse who is viewed primarily as a status symbol for their partner.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Architecture Technical · Formal

n. a decoration in art or buildings that looks like a group of weapons or flags.

n. a representation of a group of weapons, flags, or other military items used as a decorative motif in art or architecture.

“The stone walls of the old palace were decorated with trophies of shields and spears.”

“The neoclassical facade featured elaborate stone trophies depicting naval instruments and anchors to celebrate the country's maritime history.”