Totem-pole
noun
1.
a pole or post carved and painted with totemic figures, erected by Indians of the northwest coast of North America, especially in front of their houses.
2.
a hierarchical system:
the bureaucratic totem pole.
noun
1.
a pole carved or painted with totemic figures set up by certain North American Indians, esp those of the NW Pacific coast, within a village as a tribal symbol or, sometimes, in memory of a dead person
totem pole definition
Among some Native Americans, a pole on which totems are carved. The totem pole usually stands in front of a house or shelter.
Note: A totem pole is thought of figuratively as a symbol of a hierarchy: “Where does she stand on the totem pole?”
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- Totems
noun 1. a natural object or an animate being, as an animal or bird, assumed as the emblem of a clan, family, or group. 2. an object or natural phenomenon with which a family or sib considers itself closely related. 3. a representation of such an object serving as the distinctive mark of the clan […]
- Toter
verb (used with object), toted, toting. 1. to carry, as on one’s back or in one’s arms: to tote a bundle. 2. to carry on one’s person: to tote a gun. 3. to transport or convey, as on a vehicle or boat. noun 4. the act or course of toting. 5. something that is toted. […]
- Totes
verb (used with object), toted, toting. 1. to carry, as on one’s back or in one’s arms: to tote a bundle. 2. to carry on one’s person: to tote a gun. 3. to transport or convey, as on a vehicle or boat. noun 4. the act or course of toting. 5. something that is toted. […]
- To that effect
With that basic or general meaning, as in He said he was very worried, or words to that effect. This term is also put as to the effect that when introducing a clause, as in She was a little vague but said something to the effect that she’d repay the loan very soon. [ Mid-1600s […]
- To the best of
To the utmost extent of, especially of one’s ability, knowledge, or power. For example, I’m sure he’ll do it to the best of his ability, or To the best of my knowledge, they arrive tomorrow. [ c. 1500 ]