Langimage
English

medal

|med/al|

B1

/ˈmɛdəl/

award for achievement

Etymology
Etymology Information

'medal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'medalia,' where 'medalia' meant 'coin worth half a denarius.'

Historical Evolution

'medalia' transformed into the Old French word 'medaille,' and eventually became the modern English word 'medal' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a coin worth half a denarius,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an award for achievement.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a small, flat piece of metal, often shaped like a coin, that is given as an award for achievement.

She received a gold medal for her performance.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35