Noun

Singular trophy

Plural trophies

trophy (plural trophies)

1. An object, usually in the form of a statuette, cup, or shield, awarded for success in a competition or to mark a special achievement.

   He won the trophy in a running competition.

2. An object taken as a prize by a hunter or conqueror, especially one that is displayed.

   The set of antlers which hung on the wall was his prized trophy.

3. (criminology, by extension) An object taken by a serial killer or rapist as a memento of the crime.
   • 1994, Philip Jenkins, Using Murder: The Social Construction of Serial Homicide [1], ISBN 0202305252, page 117:

   The souvenirs which many killers retain of their victims are often described as trophies, and Norman Bates's taxidermic interests derived from the real-life Ed Gein.

   • 2001, R. Michael Gordon, Alias Jack the Ripper: Beyond the Usual Whitechapel Suspects [2], ISBN 0786408987, page 82:

   A trophy from this murder would have been of great importance.

   • 2004, Ronald F. Becker, Criminal Investigation [3], ISBN 0763731684, page 168:

   The offender is also likely to mentally relive his killings, often with the help of souvenirs or trophies, such as a bracelet or a body part taken from the victim.

Derived terms

• trophy wife

A trophy is a reward for a specific achievement, and usually afterwards serves as proof of merit. They are most often awarded with sporting events. These range from youth sports through professional level athletics. Often, the reward of the trophy is not simply in winning it; rather, those who win it cherish the legacy that also comes with the trophy.

In many sports Medals are often given out either instead of or along with trophies, such as: gold medals, silver medals, and bronze medals or commemorative medals.