chevron: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “chevron” mean?
a V-shaped line or stripe, typically repeated in a pattern.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
a V-shaped line or stripe, typically repeated in a pattern.
1) A badge or insignia consisting of stripes meeting at an angle, worn on a uniform to indicate rank or length of service. 2) A decorative or symbolic V-shaped motif in design, architecture, or heraldry. 3) A V-shaped mark or indentation, e.g., in geology or animal anatomy.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant semantic difference. The word is used identically in both varieties for military insignia and the V-shape concept.
Connotations
In both varieties, strongly associated with authority (military/police) and structured design (fabrics, road markings).
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects. Slightly higher frequency in UK English due to heraldic and regimental traditions.
Grammar
How to Use “chevron” in a Sentence
[to have] a chevron [on one's uniform][to be decorated with] a chevron [pattern][to promote someone] to a rank [denoted by] chevronsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chevron” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The road was chevroned to warn drivers of the sharp bend ahead.
- Her uniform sleeve was chevroned with stripes of rank.
American English
- The highway department chevroned the curve for added safety.
- His years of service were chevroned on his arm.
adjective
British English
- The chevron patterning on the fabric was very striking.
- He glanced at the chevron road markings.
American English
- She bought a pillow with a chevron design.
- The chevron insignia on his shoulder denoted his rank.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in branding or design discussions (e.g., 'The logo uses a chevron motif').
Academic
Used in history (military/heraldry), design, architecture, and geology texts.
Everyday
Very rare. Most likely understood in context of road signs (chevron markings on curves) or uniform descriptions.
Technical
Common in military/police contexts, textiles (chevron weave), road engineering, and heraldry.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chevron”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chevron”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chevron”
- Misspelling as 'cheveron' or 'shevron'.
- Mispronouncing the 'ch' as /tʃ/ (like 'church') instead of /ʃ/ (like 'shoe').
- Using it as a general synonym for any stripe or line.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the Chevron Corporation took its name and logo from the heraldic chevron symbol.
Yes, though rare. It means to mark or decorate with a chevron pattern (e.g., 'to chevron a road').
It comes from Middle English, from Old French, meaning 'rafter' or 'roof', due to the similarity in shape.
This varies by country and service. For example, a UK Army Sergeant typically has three chevrons (point-down).
a V-shaped line or stripe, typically repeated in a pattern.
Chevron is usually formal, technical in register.
Chevron: in British English it is pronounced /ˈʃevrən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈʃevrən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Rise through the chevrons (informal, rare: meaning to rise in military rank).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a French CHEF (sounds like 'chev') wearing a V-shaped hat (RON sounds like 'on') – a CHEF + RON with a V-hat = CHEVRON.
Conceptual Metaphor
AUTHORITY IS A VISIBLE BADGE (chevrons indicate rank). DIRECTION IS A POINT (chevrons point the way).
Practice
Quiz
In which of these contexts is the word 'chevron' LEAST likely to be used?