[n] a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction; "an award for bravery"
See Also...
academic degree, approval, cachet, citation, commendation, crown, decoration, degree, Emmy, honorable mention, laurel wreath, letter, medal, medallion, mention, Nobel prize, Oscar, palm, pennant, Prix de Rome, Prix Goncourt, ribbon, seal, seal of approval, symbol, trophy, varsity letter
Misc. Definitions
\Ac`co*lade"\ (#; 277), n. [F. accolade, It. accolata, fr. accollare to embrace; L. ad + collum neck.]
1. A ceremony formerly used in conferring knighthood, consisting am embrace, and a slight blow on the shoulders with the flat blade of a sword.
2. (Mus.) A brace used to join two or more staves.