totem pole

• 一种高大的木柱或柱子，上面雕刻并涂绘有一系列象征性图案，传统上由北美西北海岸原住民制作，常代表家族历史、文化信仰或重要事件。

A tall wooden post or pillar carved and painted with a series of symbolic figures, traditionally created by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of North America. It often represents family history, cultural beliefs, or important events.

1. Carved monumentB1formal

   A tall wooden post carved with symbols or figures, created by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast.

   图腾柱

   • The museum displayed a beautifully carved totem pole from the Haida tribe.
   • Totem poles often tell stories of family history and legends.
   • Visitors admired the intricate designs on the totem pole.

2. Hierarchy or rankingB2informalamerican

   Used metaphorically to describe a system of ranking or order, often in a social or organizational context.

   等级制度

   • He is at the bottom of the corporate totem pole.
   • In this company, seniority determines your place on the totem pole.
   • She worked her way up the totem pole to become a manager.