First Known Use: circa 1776
Dictionary
totem
noun to·tem \ˈtō-təm\
: something (such as an animal or plant) that is the symbol for a family, tribe, etc., especially among Native Americans
: a usually carved or painted figure that represents such a symbol
: a person or thing that represents an idea
Full Definition of TOTEM
1
a : an object (as an animal or plant) serving as the emblem of a family or clan and often as a reminder of its ancestry; also : a usually carved or painted representation of such an object b : a family or clan identified by a common totemic object
2
: one that serves as an emblem or revered symbol
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Origin of TOTEM
Ojibwa oto·te·man his totem
TOTEM Defined for Kids
totem
noun to·tem \ˈtō-təm\
Definition of TOTEM for Kids
1
: an object (as an animal or plant) serving as the emblem of a family or clan
2
: a carving or picture representing such an object
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