badge / marking
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badge
A small symbol, often worn on clothing and made of fabric, metal, or plastic, that indicates membership, an achievement, or a particular function.
Nach der bestandenen Prüfung erhielt sie stolz das Schwimmabzeichen.
After passing the exam, she proudly received the swimming badge.
marking
A natural marking of a different color in an animal's fur, on its skin, or on its feathers.
Das Pferd hat ein auffälliges weißes Abzeichen an der Stirn.
The horse has a striking white marking on its forehead.
The word is made up of the prefix 'ab' and the noun 'Zeichen' (sign/mark). An 'Abzeichen' (badge/marking) is therefore literally a sign that sets someone or something apart from others or marks it in a special way.
Für seine Tapferkeit erhielt der Soldat ein besonderes Abzeichen.
For his bravery, the soldier received a special badge.
In connection with achievements or membership, an 'Abzeichen' (badge) is often 'verliehen' (awarded), 'getragen' (worn), 'erworben' (earned), or 'angesteckt' (pinned) to clothing.
Sie trägt das Abzeichen ihres Vereins an der Jacke.
She wears her club's badge on her jacket.
You can recognize this meaning from the context: when it is about animals, especially horses or dogs, 'Abzeichen' (marking) describes a natural colored marking in the fur.
Das schwarze Pferd hat ein kleines weißes Abzeichen am Bein.
The black horse has a small white marking on its leg.
drawing / subscription
For an animal, Zeichnung refers to the overall natural pattern of its fur or feathers. Abzeichen, by contrast, means a single differently colored area by which the animal can be recognized. Zeichnung is therefore appropriate for the overall pattern, while Abzeichen is used for a specific marking.
Ein weißes Abzeichen auf der Stirn macht den Hund leicht erkennbar.
A white marking on the dog's forehead makes it easy to recognize.
Die Zeichnung im Fell des Hundes besteht aus vielen hellen und dunklen Flecken.
The pattern in the dog's fur consists of many light and dark spots.
