to·ken (tō'kən)
n.

1. Something serving as an indication, proof, or expression of something else; a sign: "Tears are queer tokens of happiness" (Eugene O'Neill). See synonyms at sign.
2. Something that signifies or evidences authority, validity, or identity: The scepter is a token of regal status.
3. A distinguishing feature or characteristic.
4. One that represents a group, as an employee whose presence is used to deflect from the employer criticism or accusations of discrimination.
5. A keepsake or souvenir.
6. A piece of stamped metal used as a substitute for currency: subway tokens.

tr.v., -kened, -ken·ing, -kens.
To betoken or symbolize; portend.

adj.

1. Done as an indication or a pledge: a token payment.
2. 1. Perfunctory; minimal: a token gesture of reconciliation; token resistance.
   2. Merely symbolic: refused to be the token woman on the committee.

idioms:

by the same token

1. In like manner; similarly.

in token of

1. As an indication of: a ring given in token of love.

[Middle English, from Old English tācen.]

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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