A badge is a device or accessory, often containing the insignia of an organization, which is presented or displayed to indicate some feat of service, a special accomplishment, a symbol of authority granted by taking an oath (e.g., police and fire), a sign of legitimate employment or student status, or as a simple means of identification. They are also used in advertising, publicity, and branding purposes. Police badges date back to medieval times when knights wore a coat of arms representing their allegiances and loyalty.
A cop’s badge is perhaps the most visible and recognizable symbol of policing around the world. It’s seen by many as a sign of authority, sacrifice, and service.
Although it’s most closely associated with public service professionals such as firefighters, correctional officers, and especially police officers, the use of badges actually long predates the modern concept of law enforcement and policing as we know it.
Badges can be made from metal, plastic, leather, textile, rubber, etc. Textile badges or patches can be either woven or embroidered and can be attached by gluing, ironing-on, sewing or applique.
In the military, badges are used to denote the unit or arm to which the wearer belongs, and also qualifications received through military training, rank, etc. Similarly, youth organizations such as scouting and guiding use them to show group membership, awards, and rank.
