emblematic

adjective

em·​blem·​at·​ic ˌem-blə-ˈma-tik 

variants or less commonly emblematical

ˌem-blə-ˈma-ti-kəl 

: of, relating to, or constituting an emblem : symbolic, representative

emblematically

ˌem-blə-ˈma-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• representational
• representative
• symbolic
• symbolical

Examples of emblematic in a Sentence

the dove is emblematic of the organization's mission to bring some peace to a troubled world

Recent Examples on the Web

For many, Peltier's release is a long-overdue act of justice, particularly for Indigenous communities that see his case as emblematic of a broader history of systemic injustice. —Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025

High-Profile Failures That Defined DEI’s Retreat The public dismantling of DEI programs by major corporations like Meta, Amazon, McDonald’s, Walmart, and Ford is emblematic of the broader retreat, highlighting the fragility of corporate commitments to diversity and inclusion. —Gillian Oakenfull, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025

Stan calls it a disappointing but unsurprising moment, emblematic of the discomfort many in Hollywood feel about engaging with the film publicly. —Clayton Davis, Variety, 12 Jan. 2025

That rich history and current success, unprecedented if the Chiefs win a third-straight Super Bowl, and the deepening connection between the team and its now-vast fan base compelled The Star to spend the last few months seeking out fans emblematic of that relationship. —Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 12 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin emblēmaticus, from emblēmat-, emblēma emblem entry 1 + -icus -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1645, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

emblematic

adjective

em·​blem·​at·​ic ˌem-blə-ˈmat-ik 

variants also emblematical

-ˈmat-i-kəl 

: of, relating to, or serving as an emblem : symbolic