What does mascot mean?
A mascot is a person, animal, or object that represents a sports team, organization, public event, or other group. The word is especially associated with sports, where a team may adopt an animal or human character as its official symbol and display its image on uniforms, signage, and merchandise. Mascots are traditionally believed to bring good luck, although in modern usage they chiefly serve promotional, symbolic, and entertainment functions. They may be imaginative creatures such as a dragon or eagle, familiar animals such as an eagle or tiger, or costumed performers who appear at games and public events. The word can also refer more broadly to any person or thing whose presence is regarded as encouraging. Although its original sense was closer to that of a lucky charm or talisman, the modern mascot is usually understood as a visible representative of the group with which it is associated.
nounA person, animal, or object adopted as a representative or emblem of a sports team, organization, or event, especially one believed to bring good luck.
- A person, animal, or object representing a team, organization, or event, especially one thought to bring good luck.
- A person or thing whose presence is believed to encourage or protect a team.
"The team unveiled its new mascot before the opening game."
"The team unveiled its new mascot before the opening game."
"Her lucky rabbit became the mascot of the annual festival."
Used when referring to the representatives of several teams, organizations, or events.
"The two mascots performed together before the game."
The word originally referred to a charm or talisman, so a modern costumed mascot is a human stand-in for something once believed to possess magical luck.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mascot come from?
The English word entered English from French mascotte in the 19th century. The French word is generally traced to Provençal masco, meaning a charm or talisman, reflecting the traditional association of mascots with good luck. English usage developed from the idea of a lucky object to the person, animal, or object chosen to represent a team or organization.
Related word forms
How mascot is actually used
The term is neutral and is especially common in sports, entertainment, and institutional branding. It may refer to a fictional character, an animal, an object, or a person portrayed in a costume.
Easily confused with mascot
A mascot represents a team or event and may bring good luck, whereas a mask is a covering worn over the face.