What Are Sorority Symbols? Meaning, Tradition & Sisterhood
Let’s be real—sorority life is full of aesthetic moments.
But those cute owls, dolphins, and violets you keep seeing? They’re more than Instagrammable—they’re symbols of identity, and they carry generations of meaning.
So what is a sorority symbol, and why does it matter? Let's break it down.
What Counts as a Sorority Symbol?
Every sorority has a set of cherished symbols that represent its values, history, and personality. These symbols are used in rituals, crests, jewelry, apparel, and more.
The most common types of sorority symbols include:
-
Mascots (like owls or lions)
-
Flowers (roses, violets, etc.)
-
Jewels/Gems (pearls, diamonds, sapphires)
-
Colors (specific shades with historical significance)
-
Mottos (usually secret or ritual-based)
-
Symbols (like keys, anchors, arrows, stars)
Examples of Popular Sorority Symbols
| Sorority | Flower | Jewel | Mascot/Symbol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha Delta Pi | Violet | Diamond | Lion |
| Alpha Kappa Alpha | Tea Rose | Pearl | Ivy Leaf |
| Chi Omega | White Carnation | Pearl | Owl & Skull/Crossbones |
| Delta Gamma | Cream Rose | Anchor | Anchor |
| Delta Sigma Theta | African Violet | Ruby | Elephant |
| Kappa Alpha Theta | Black & Gold Pansy | Kite | Kite |
| Sigma Gamma Rho | Yellow Tea Rose | Ruby | Poodle |
| Zeta Phi Beta | White Rose | Sapphire | Dove |
| Alpha Phi | Lily of the Valley | Ivy Leaf | Phi Bear |
| Tri Delta (ΔΔΔ) | Pansy | Pearl | Dolphin |
Why Do Symbols Matter?
Symbols serve as a shortcut for sisterhood.
They say: “This is who we are. This is where we come from. This is what we believe.”
They're also:
✔ Used in ritual and initiation ceremonies
✔ Seen on graduation stoles, paddles, and lavalieres
✔ Shared across generations of members
✔ A way to spot your sisters—across campus or across the country
? Where You’ll See Sorority Symbols Most
-
On crests and coats of arms
-
Engraved into jewelry and accessories
-
Featured on Bid Day banners and signs
-
Embroidered into jackets, hoodies, and bags
-
In the details of your Big/Little gifts
They might be subtle (like a charm bracelet) or bold (like a house flag), but they’re always meaningful.
Final Thought:
In Greek life, symbols aren’t just decorations—they’re the heartbeat of tradition. They connect past to present, Bigs to Littles, and chapters across the country.
So whether you wear your anchor around your neck or paint it on your cooler, just know: that symbol says everything without saying a word.