badges of honor
Symbols of merit
Badges of honor are achievements, experiences, or marks—physical or metaphorical—worn proudly as evidence of worthiness or struggle overcome.
The phrase often carries irony: scars, failures, or hardships reframed as proof of character rather than shame.
She wore her stretch marks as badges of honor.
In that profession, getting fired by a corrupt boss was a badge of honor.
- insigniaDistinguishing mark of rank
- meritDeserved praise-worthiness
- emblemRepresentational sign or device
- service medalAward for military service
- medalMetal honor token
decoration · commendation · service ribbons · ribbons · stripes · distinction · order of merit · Purple Heart · pins · war wounds · battle scars · sashes · self-respect · bragging rights · acknowledgment · patches · courage · perseverance
badges of honorparticipation trophies
Prizes for mere involvement
consolation prizes · rubber stamps · gimmes · handouts · freebies
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