symbolic

adjective

sym·​bol·​ic sim-ˈbä-lik 

variants or less commonly symbolical

sim-ˈbä-li-kəl 

1

a

: using, employing, or exhibiting a symbol

b

: consisting of or proceeding by means of symbols

2

: of, relating to, or constituting a symbol

3

: characterized by or terminating in symbols

symbolic thinking

4

: characterized by symbolism

a symbolic dance

symbolically

sim-ˈbä-li-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• emblematic
• emblematical
• representational
• representative

Examples of symbolic in a Sentence

The lighting of the candles is symbolic.

The sharing of the wine has symbolic meaning.

Recent Examples on the Web

Yet even as the crimes or the forms of intoxication evolve, the power of the symbolic meal persists. —Jessica Carbone, Saveur, 24 Oct. 2024

Zoom in: Campaign advisers think that the symbolic location will serve as a reminder of the violent day in history on Jan. 6, 2021 — and be an effective backdrop for Harris to argue that there is a way forward for the country. —Erin Doherty, Axios, 23 Oct. 2024

Harris officials were focused on finding a symbolic venue for the closing days of the campaign, beyond just that of a campaign rally in a swing state. —Annabella Rosciglione, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 23 Oct. 2024

But my research shows how fashion plays an important, symbolic role in politics that goes far beyond patriotism. —Therèsa M. Winge, The Conversation, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing symbolic

• symbolic gesture
• symbolic logic

Kids Definition

symbolic

adjective

sym·​bol·​ic sim-ˈbäl-ik 

variants also symbolical

-i-kəl 

1

: of, relating to, or using symbols or symbolism

a symbolic meaning

symbolic art

2

: having the function or meaning of a symbol

symbolically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb