Insignia vs. Regalia — What's the Difference?

An insignia (from Latin insignia, plural of insigne 'emblem, symbol, ensign') is a sign or mark distinguishing a group, grade, rank, or function. It can be a symbol of personal power or that of an official group or governing body.

Regalia is a Latin plurale tantum word that has different definitions. In one rare definition, it refers to the exclusive privileges of a sovereign.

A distinguishing badge or emblem of military rank, office, or membership of an organization

Royal rights, prerogatives and privileges actually enjoyed by any sovereign, regardless of his title (emperor, grand duke etc.).

A badge of office, rank, membership, or nationality; an emblem.

The emblems, symbols, or paraphernalia indicative of royalty or any other sovereign status; such as a crown, orb, sceptre or sword.

A distinguishing sign.

Decorations or insignia indicative of an office or membership of an order or society; such as freemasonry.

A patch or other object that indicates a person's official or military rank, or membership in a group or organization.

Traditional dress and accessories of North American Indigenous nations worn for ritual purposes.

A symbol or token of personal power, status, or office, or of an official body of government or jurisdiction.

(by extension) Finery, magnificent dress, or lavish or flashy costume.

(figurative) A mark or token by which anything is known.

Sumptuous food.

Inflection of insignium

(archaic) A kind of large cigar of superior quality.

Inflection of insigne

That which belongs to royalty. Specifically: (a) The rights and prerogatives of a king. (b) Royal estates and revenues. (c) Ensings, symbols, or paraphernalia of royalty.

Distinguishing marks of authority, office, or honor; badges; tokens; decorations; as, the insignia of royalty or of an order.

Hence, decorations or insignia of an office or order, as of Freemasons, Odd Fellows,etc.

Typical and characteristic marks or signs, by which anything is known or distinguished; as, the insignia of a trade.

Sumptuous food; delicacies.

A badge worn to show official position

A kind of cigar of large size and superior quality; also, the size in which such cigars are classed.

Paraphernalia indicative of royalty (or other high office)

Especially fine or decorative clothing