lapel pins

Meanings

1. 1nounplural

   Small decorative pins attached to the folded flap of a jacket or coat, often showing a logo, flag, or symbol.

   Grammar: Almost always plural; the singular 'lapel pin' is used for one item.

   Patterns

   • wear a lapel pin
   • a lapel pin on someone's jacket

   He wore a small silver lapel pin shaped like a bird.

   Delegates were given lapel pins with the conference logo.

   She collects vintage lapel pins from old political campaigns.

2. 2nounplural

   Such pins used as a badge to show membership, rank, or support for a cause.

   Grammar: Used in the plural when talking about the items as a category or set.

   Patterns

   • a lapel pin for something
   • proudly wear a lapel pin

   The veterans proudly wore their service lapel pins.

   A flag lapel pin is a common sight at political events.

Word forms

Common combinations

wear a lapel pin

He always wears a lapel pin on his suit.

a flag lapel pin

The senator added a flag lapel pin to his jacket.

a gold lapel pin

She was given a gold lapel pin for twenty years of service.

a lapel pin with a logo

Staff received lapel pins with the company logo.

Synonyms and how they differ

badge

A badge is usually larger and may be pinned or clipped anywhere, while a lapel pin is specifically small and worn on the jacket flap.

brooch

A brooch is a decorative jewelry item, often larger and more ornate, and is not necessarily a symbol of membership.

Word family

lapel noun

The folded flap on the front of a jacket or coat.

pin noun

A small thin piece of metal with a sharp point, used for fastening.

Commonly confused: lapel pins or lapel mic?

Practice

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