Emily Dickinson Lexicon

STIG'MA, n. [L. from Gr. στιγμα, from στιζω, to prick or stick.]

1. A brand; a mark made with a burning iron.
2. Any mark of infamy; any reproachful conduct which stains the purity or darkens the luster of reputation.
3. In botany, the top of the pistil, which always has a peculiar structure different from that of the style, and is moist and pubescent to detain and burst the pollen or prolific powder. – Martyn.