Etymology

Noun

1. A distinctive mark, token, sign, emblem or cognizance, worn on one's clothing, as an insignia of some rank, or of the membership of an organization.
2. A small nameplate, identifying the wearer, and often giving additional information.
3. A card, sometimes with a barcode or magnetic strip, granting access to a certain area.
4. Something characteristic; a mark; a token.
   • 1. A term used for one burned in the hand.

        He has got his badge, and piked: He was burned in the hand, and is at liberty.

     2. A carved ornament on the stern of a vessel, containing a window or the representation of one.
     3. A distinctive mark worn by servants, retainers, and followers of royalty or nobility, who, being beneath the rank of gentlemen, have no right to armorial bearings.
     
     

     Verb

     
     
     
     1. To mark or distinguish with a badge.
     2. To enter a restricted area by showing one's badge.
        • David Simon, Homicide ISBN 0-8050-8075-9, p. 118 - Worden and James walk [...] to the [...] Courthouse [...], where they badge their way past sheriff's deputies and take the elevator to the third floor.