TOTEM Meaning and
Definition
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A totem is a symbol or emblem that represents a group, clan, tribe, or family, and holds significant cultural and religious meaning. It is an object, animal, or natural element that is revered and believed to possess spiritual powers or qualities that are associated with the group it represents. Totems can be found in various indigenous cultures around the world.
Typically, totems are chosen based on certain characteristics or attributes that the group wishes to embody or revere. These characteristics may include bravery, strength, intelligence, wisdom, or cooperation. Totems can be animals, such as bears, wolves, or eagles, which are often believed to possess specific qualities that resonate with the group. Other totems can be natural elements like trees, mountains, or rivers, as well as inanimate objects like masks or sculptures.
Totems play a central role in many indigenous rituals, ceremonies, and storytelling traditions. They are believed to connect the group with their ancestors, spirits, and the divine, acting as a spiritual guide or protector. Totems often serve as a source of inspiration, providing guidance and lessons for group members to live harmoniously with nature and one another.
In contemporary usage, the term "totem" can also refer to any symbol or representation that holds personal or cultural significance, or serves as a focal point for a community or organization. It may also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone that is considered emblematic or representative of a particular quality or belief.
Top Common Misspellings for TOTEM *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for TOTEM
Etymology of TOTEM
The word "totem" comes from the Ojibwe language, which is spoken by the Ojibwe people, an indigenous community primarily located in North America. In Ojibwe, the word is "odoodem" or "ototeman", which refers to a particular kinship group or clan in their society. The term was later adopted by anthropologists and scholars studying indigenous cultures, becoming more widely used to describe a symbol or emblem representing a group or individual's spiritual or symbolic connection to a particular animal, plant, or natural entity.
Idioms with the word TOTEM
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high man on the totem pole
The idiom "high man on the totem pole" refers to someone who holds a position of high authority or importance within a particular group or organization. It implies being at the top or in a superior position among others.
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low man on the totem pole
The idiom "low man on the totem pole" refers to the person in a hierarchical structure or organization who holds the lowest rank or position. They are often the least influential or experienced individual, and may receive the least favorable treatment or have limited decision-making power.
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low on the totem pole
The idiom "low on the totem pole" refers to being in a lower or subordinate position within a hierarchy or organization. It implies having less authority, influence, or importance compared to others. It originates from the cultural representation of totem poles in certain Indigenous cultures, where higher positions are depicted at the top, and lower positions closer to the base.
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the low man on the totem pole
The idiom "the low man on the totem pole" means the person in a group or organization who holds the least amount of power or influence, and often receives the least respect. This phrase originated from Native American totem poles, where the figures on the lower levels were typically less significant or important than those higher up.
Similar spelling word for TOTEM
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