Medal (noun)

1. A small, flat, often round piece of metal, typically with an inscription or design, made to commemorate an event or awarded as a distinction to someone such as a soldier, athlete, or scholar.
2. An award or decoration, typically in the form of a metal disc with an inscription or design, given as an honor to someone such as a soldier, athlete, or scholar.

Origin:

Late middle english: from old french medaille, from medieval latin medalia, neuter plural of medalis "of the middle", from latin medius "middle".

Examples:

1. He won a medal in the Olympics.
2. She won a medal in the marathon.
3. He received a medal for his service.
4. She received a medal for her bravery.
5. The soldier was awarded a medal.