I. ˈbaj, -aa(ə)j noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English bagge, bage, probably from Anglo-French bageys
1. : a distinctive or distinguishing mark, token, device, or sign especially of membership in a society or group and usually worn on the person
a knight in armor wearing his lady's scarf as a badge
a policeman's badge
no badge of authority such as a cap or uniform to distinguish them
the yacht club badge on the flag flying from the mainmast
2. : something so characteristic as to suggest or serve as a badge
the black coat and green eyeshade that were the recognized badge of his calling — Oscar Lewis
higher education, or what passes for that, is neither a birthright nor a necessary badge of respectability — Douglas Bush
the contemporary badges of boyhood — visor cap, short-pants suit, and black cotton stockings — Jack Alexander
3. : an emblem awarded for a particular accomplishment (as proficiency in marksmanship)
a scout's merit badge
combat infantryman's badge
Synonyms: see sign
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English baggen, from bagge, n.
: to mark or distinguish with a badge