stripe

 
Pronunciation: /strʌɪp/

noun

  • 1a long, narrow band or strip differing in colour or texture from the surface on either side of it: a pair of blue shorts with pink stripes
  • archaic a blow with a scourge or lash.
  • 2a chevron sewn on to a uniform to denote military rank: he was wearing his old uniform without its sergeant’s stripes
  • 3chiefly North American a type or category: entrepreneurs of all stripes are joining in the offensive

verb

[with object]
  • mark with stripes: her body was striped with bands of sunlight

Phrases

earn one's stripes

gain a higher rank in the military.
deserve a position, status or reputation through work or achievements: she’s earning her stripes by showing how hard she’s willing to work

Origin:

late Middle English: perhaps a back-formation from striped, of Dutch or Low German origin; compare with Middle Dutch and Middle Low German strīpe