1. the highest award or distinction, as the first prize in a contest: His entry at the state fair won a blue ribbon.
2. a blue ribbon worn as a badge of honor, esp. by members of the Order of the Garter of the British knighthood.
3. ( caps. ) Also, Brit., Blue Ribband . (formerly) a prize awarded to an ocean liner making the fastest recorded trip across the Atlantic Ocean between Ambrose Lightship and Bishop Rock.
4. a badge used by some temperance organizations to indicate a pledge of abstinence from alcohol.
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