totem
/ˈtoʊtəm/
noun
- An object, animal, or plant that is a symbol of a family, clan, or group, often in Native American cultures, and is treated with respect.
- The eagle is a common totem for many tribes.
- Each clan has its own totem that represents its identity.
- The totem was carved from a single piece of wood.
- A person or thing that is a symbol or emblem of something.
- The old oak tree was a totem of the neighborhood's history.
- For the team, the championship trophy was a totem of their success.
- The mascot became a totem of school spirit.