Venerated symbol (5)
I believe the answer is:
totem
'venerated symbol' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for totem that I've seen before include "emblem of tribe?" , "symbol of spiritual significance" , "This pole is carved and painted by N American Indians" , "Revered symbol" , "Pole used in ritual" .)