APA Dictionary of Psychology
totem
- n.
- a revered animal, plant, natural force, or inanimate object that is conceived as the ancestor, symbol, protector, or tutelary spirit of a people, clan, or community. It is usually made the focus of certain ritual activities and taboos, typically against killing or eating it.
- as interpreted by Sigmund Freud in Totem and Taboo (1912–1913), any symbol or representation of the primal father. —totemic adj. —totemism n.
Updated on 04/19/2018
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