Medal

ˈmɛdl̩

nounBeginner📊CommonGeneral
2 meanings3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A metal disc or plaque awarded as an honor or prize, usually for athletic achievement, military service, or other merit.

ˈmɛdl̩

nounpositiveBeginner
General

An object awarded as a recognition of achievement.

The athlete received a gold medal for winning the race.

💡 Simply: Imagine you did something awesome, like winning a race or helping someone out. A medal is like a special prize you get to show everyone how great you are! It's like a big, shiny hug of appreciation!

👶 For kids: A prize you get for being really good at something, like winning a game!

More Examples

2

The soldier was given a medal for his bravery.

3

The student received a medal for academic excellence.

How It's Used

Sports

"She won a gold medal in the Olympics."

Military

"He was awarded a medal for his bravery."

Academic

"The university awarded him a medal for his research."

2

To award a medal to someone.

ˈmɛdl̩

verbpositivemedium
General

The general medaled the soldiers for their courage.

💡 Simply: To medal someone is like giving them the medal for doing something awesome! It's to honor someone with this achievement award.

👶 For kids: To give someone a prize medal.

More Examples

2

The coach medaled the team after their victory.

3

The organization plans to medal the volunteers next week.

How It's Used

Formal Ceremony

"The president medaled the war hero for their actions."

Tip:The action of giving a medal. *Medal* someone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

From Middle French *médaille*, from Italian *medaglia*, likely from a diminutive of Vulgar Latin *metallum* ("metal").

The use of medals as symbols of honor and recognition dates back to ancient civilizations. In modern times, they became associated with military valor and achievement in sports.

Memory tip

Think of a metal disc that is awarded. A *medal* means success.

Word Origin

LanguageMiddle French
Original meaning

"A small metal object, often circular, given as a mark of honor or reward."

gold medalsilver medalbronze medalawarded a medalreceive a medalwear a medal

Common misspellings

meddlemeddal

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written