chevron

noun

chev·​ron ˈshev-rən 

: a figure, pattern, or object having the shape of a V or an inverted V: such as

a

: a heraldic charge consisting of two diagonal stripes meeting at an angle usually with the point up

b

: a sleeve badge that usually consists of one or more chevron-shaped stripes that indicates the wearer's rank and service (as in the armed forces)

Illustration of chevron

• 1 marine staff sergeant
• 2 air force staff sergeant
• 3 army staff sergeant

Did you know?

First appearing in English in the 14th century, chevron derives via Middle English and Anglo-French from the Vulgar Latin word caprio, meaning "rafter (probably due to its resemblance to two adjoining roof beams)." It is also related to the Latin noun caper, meaning "goat," again likely based on the resemblance of a V-shape to a goat’s horns. "Caper" is also an ancestor of "Capricorn," the tenth sign of the zodiac, represented by a goat. The resemblance of "chevron" to "chèvre," the French word for "goat" and our word for a kind of cheese that comes from goat’s milk, is no coincidence, as that word derives from "caper" as well.

Examples of chevron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Barbeau was photographed wearing a stylish sweater with a light chevron pattern, paired with jeans and a pair of red cowboy boots. —Elizabeth Stanton, Fox News, 8 Dec. 2024

This one comes in 28 colors and packs some major fluff into its chevron pattern. —Will Porter, Architectural Digest, 2 Dec. 2024

The most fun was turning accessories (crochet flowers, a chevron tote) into statement sweaters. —Jane Herman, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2024

The first step involved positioning the ribbon embroidery in a classic chevron pattern. —Romany Williams, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English cheveron, from Anglo-French, rafter, chevron, from Vulgar Latin *caprion-, *caprio rafter; akin to Latin caper goat

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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Kids Definition

chevron

noun

chev·​ron ˈshev-rən 

1

: a figure resembling a V or an upside-down V

2

: a sleeve badge indicating rank (as in the armed forces)