totem
UK: ˈtəʊtəm | US: ˈtoʊtəm
n. a natural object or animal believed by a particular society to have spiritual significance and adopted as an emblem
n. a symbol representing a family, clan, or group
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The word "totem" originates from the Ojibwe (Algonquian language) word "odoodem," meaning "his kinship group" or "family mark." It was adopted into English in the late 18th century through anthropological studies of Indigenous North American cultures. The term reflects the concept of a sacred emblem tied to tribal identity, with no further morphemic breakdown in English. Its spelling and meaning remain closely tied to its Native American roots.
The bear is considered a totem of strength in many Indigenous traditions.
Each clan in the tribe has its own unique totem pole.
The eagle totem symbolizes freedom and vision.
Anthropologists studied the cultural significance of totems in Pacific Northwest tribes.
She wore a necklace with a small totem representing her family lineage.