Meaning & use
token
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A small object, gesture, or action that represents or symbolizes a feeling, fact, or right, such as a coin-like object used in place of money.
See it in a sentence
She gave him a small token of her appreciation.
You'll need a token to ride the old subway turnstiles.
A note on using this word
As an adjective, 'token' describes something done only for appearance's sake, as in 'a token effort' or 'a token gesture,' implying it's minimal or symbolic rather than substantial.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. adjective
Done or included only as a symbolic gesture, often to create an appearance of fairness or inclusion, without real commitment.
Critics said the company's diversity hire was merely token.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “token”, then compare your use with the examples above.