TOKEN

Definition of TOKEN

TOKEN Noun, Verb and (less common) Adjective

Token is a versatile term that can function as a noun, verb, and occasionally as an adjective. It generally refers to a symbol or item representing something else, a sign of appreciation, or a nominal gesture.

TOKEN as a noun

As a Noun (Symbol or Representation): As a noun, token refers to an item or symbol that represents something else or stands for a concept, idea, or value. For example, “The company gave him a token of appreciation for his hard work” indicates a symbolic gift or gesture representing gratitude.

As a Noun (Voucher or Coupon): Token can also denote a voucher or coupon that can be exchanged for goods or services. For instance, “The arcade gave out tokens that could be used to play games” refers to physical items used in place of money.

As a Noun (Sign or Evidence): Token may describe something that serves as a sign or evidence of a particular condition or situation. For example, “His arrival was a token of his commitment to the project” indicates a sign of dedication or commitment.

TOKEN as a verb

As a Verb (To Offer a Symbolic Gesture): Although less common, token can be used as a verb in informal contexts to mean offering or giving a symbolic gesture. For example, “They tokened their support by attending the event” describes the act of showing support through a symbolic action.

TOKEN as an adjective

As an Adjective (Describing Something Symbolic): Token is occasionally used as an adjective to describe something that is symbolic or minimal in nature. For example, “The token payment was made as a formality” describes a payment that is small or symbolic rather than substantial.

Examples in Language: In language, token is used to describe items or gestures that symbolize or represent something else. For example, “The token of appreciation was a small but meaningful gesture” highlights the symbolic nature of a gift or gesture.

Contextual Uses: Token can be applied in various contexts, including: Symbolism: Referring to items or gestures that represent or symbolize something. Vouchers: Describing tokens used as a form of currency or exchange in certain settings. Evidence: Indicating signs or evidence of a particular condition or situation.

Characteristics of a Token: Symbolism: Represents or signifies something else. Exchange: Can be used as a voucher or coupon for goods or services. Minimalism: May be minimal or symbolic in nature.

Implementing the Concept of Token: Gifting: Utilizing tokens as symbols of appreciation or gratitude. Vouchers: Understanding the role of tokens in transactions or exchanges. Symbolism: Recognizing the significance of tokens in representing values or evidence.

Cultural and Practical Perspectives: The concept of token is significant in various fields such as symbolism, transactions, and gestures. Understanding its application emphasizes the role of tokens in representing values, serving as vouchers, and symbolizing gestures across different contexts.

In conclusion, token is a term that can function as a noun, verb, and occasionally an adjective, describing items or gestures that symbolize or represent something else. Recognizing the characteristics and applications of token highlights its role in symbolism, transactions, and minimal gestures across various contexts.

Examples of TOKEN in a sentence

TOKEN as a noun in a sentence

  • He received a token of appreciation for his hard work.
  • The arcade game required a token to start playing.
  • They offered a small token gift to thank their guests for attending.
  • The token gesture was meant to symbolize their commitment to the cause.
  • She handed him a token representing his achievement.
  • The museum provided a token for visitors to redeem in the gift shop.
  • The token payment was made to reserve the rental property.
  • The company issued a token to employees as part of the annual bonus.

TOKEN as a verb in a sentence

  • The manager decided to token the employees’ contributions with a special award.
  • They tokened their support by making a small donation.
  • The organization tokened their commitment to sustainability through various initiatives.
  • He tokened his gratitude by sending a thank-you note.
  • The festival tokened participants with commemorative medals.
  • She tokened her role in the project by contributing to the final report.
  • They tokened their appreciation with a small yet meaningful gesture.
  • The team tokened their achievement with a celebratory event.

TOKEN as an adjective in a sentence

  • The token effort was seen as a minimal attempt to address the issue.
  • They made a token donation to charity to meet their social responsibility goals.
  • The token gesture did not fully address the concerns raised by the employees.
  • The company issued token rewards to recognize minor achievements.
  • The token appearance at the event showed a lack of genuine commitment.
  • She received a token recognition for her participation in the project.
  • The token payment was not sufficient to cover the full cost.
  • The token gesture was appreciated but not considered a substantial contribution.

Origin of TOKEN

The term token has a fascinating etymological history, reflecting its evolution from early language use to contemporary meanings.

  • Old English Origins: The term token originates from the Old English word “tacen,” which means “sign” or “mark.” This term is derived from the Proto-Germanic “*taiknam,” reflecting the concept of something that serves as a symbol or representation.
  • Middle English Development: In Middle English, “tacen” evolved into “token,” maintaining its meaning of a sign or symbol. The term began to encompass objects or marks used to signify something else, such as a token of affection or a symbol of a particular event.
  • Early Modern Usage: By the Early Modern English period, token had expanded to include various uses, such as a physical object given as a reminder or symbol of a person or event. It was also used in contexts like tokens of payment or entry.
  • Modern Usage: Today, token refers to an object or symbol that represents something else, often used in various contexts such as tokens in gaming, tokens of appreciation, and symbolic tokens in digital or physical transactions. It encompasses a broad range of meanings, including physical items, symbols, and digital representations.

The term token illustrates its evolution from Old English roots related to signs and symbols to its modern use, reflecting a wide range of applications from physical objects to symbolic representations. Its development highlights the term’s versatility and adaptability in different contexts.

Synonyms

  • Symbol
  • Sign
  • Emblem
  • Marker
  • Badge
  • Souvenir
  • Representation
  • Memento

Antonyms

  • None (as “token” is a specific term with no direct antonyms)

Related

  • Voucher
  • Coupon
  • Representation
  • Signifier
  • Keepsake
  • Proof
  • Indicator
  • Artifact

🌐 🇬🇧 TOKEN in other languages

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