an award for winning a championship or commemorating some other event
"The athlete proudly displayed her gold medal after securing first place in the national swimming championships."
A stamped metal disc used as a personal ornament, a charm, or a religious object.
"He kept his grandmother's small silver medal on a chain around his neck as a lucky charm."
In plain English: A medal is a shiny metal award given to someone for winning a competition or doing something special.
"She pinned her gold medal to her chest with pride after winning the race."
Usage: A medal is typically worn on clothing to display an award or achievement rather than serving purely as jewelry. Use this term specifically for items given in recognition of merit, not for decorative charms without such significance.
To win a medal.
"She was thrilled to medal in the national swimming competition."
The word "medal" comes from the Italian medaglia, which originally referred to half a denarius coin before entering Middle French and then English. Its ultimate root is the Latin medius meaning "middle," reflecting how these coins were often minted with two distinct sides or halves.