Trophy

Definition

A trophy is a prize or award given for a specific achievement, or a symbol of success.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtroʊfi/
• Respelling: TROH-fee (with "TROH" rhyming with "no" and "fee" as in "fee")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtrəʊfi/
• Respelling: TROH-fee (similar to American English, with "TROH" like in "no" and "fee" as in "fee")

In both dialects, "trophy" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable "TROH." The word begins with "TROH," which rhymes with "no," followed by "fee," which is the same as the word "fee." The pronunciation of "trophy" is consistent between American and British English.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word "tropē", meaning "a turning" or "a rout", the term "trophy" historically referred to arms, standards, other property, or human captives and body parts (e.g., headhunting) captured in battle. These war trophies commemorated the military victories of a state, army, or individual combatant.

Derivatives

• Trophyless
• Trophied
• Trophy-like
• Trophy room
• Trophy case

Synonyms

• Prize
• Award
• Medal

Antonyms

• None

Usage

• "She won a trophy for her exemplary performance in the competition."
• "The team's trophy cabinet was filled with numerous awards from over the years."

Related Terms

• Plaque
• Honor
• Accolade
• Laurels
• Recognition

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Prize for Achievement: A decorative object awarded as a prize in a contest or competition.
• Example: The team was overjoyed to lift the championship trophy.

• Symbol of Success: Something that serves as evidence of one's achievements.
• Example: The rare artifact was considered the archaeologist's trophy of his long career.

• Hunting Symbol: The head, antlers, tail, or some other part of an animal kept as a reminder of a successful hunt.
• Example: The hunter displayed the deer's antlers as a trophy on his wall.