German word

Ehrennadel

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈeːʁənˌnaːdl̩/

Meaning

  • feminine nounbadge of honor

Example

Er bekam die Ehrennadel für seine langjährige Arbeit.

He received the badge of honor for his many years of work.

Illustration for Ehrennadel (badge of honor)

More examples

Wegen eines Skandals wurde ihm die Ehrennadel aberkannt.

His badge of honor was withdrawn because of a scandal.

Core concept

A modest metal badge on a lapel represents an institution's formal recognition of sustained contribution.

Common phrases

  • die Ehrennadel verleihen

    confer the badge of honor

  • die Ehrennadel aberkennen

    withdraw the badge of honor

Similar words

Auszeichnung: An award formally given to recognize achievements or contributions.
Medaille: A metal medal awarded for achievement or displayed on the chest or a ribbon.
Orden: A decorated order bestowed by a state or organization for distinguished service.
Anstecknadel: A small decorative pin fastened to clothing.

Definition in German

Ein kleines Abzeichen in Form einer Nadel, das als Zeichen für besondere Verdienste oder langjährige Zugehörigkeit verliehen wird.

Word origin

The compound Ehrennadel joins Ehre, honor, with Nadel, needle or pin, naming an honor presented in pin form.

Usage tips

  • Awards described with Ehrennadel commonly use verleihen for presenting and erhalten or bekommen for receiving.

Other meanings

  • decorationnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • Ehrennadelträgerrecipient of a badge of honornoun

Word lists with this word