symptom

as in manifestation
something that indicates the presence of something else (such as a disease or problem) A sore throat, a runny nose, and frequent sneezing are some of the symptoms of the common cold. Homelessness is only a symptom of larger problems in our society.

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Synonym Chooser

How is the word symptom distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of symptom are mark, note, sign, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

Where would mark be a reasonable alternative to symptom?

While in some cases nearly identical to symptom, mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When is note a more appropriate choice than symptom?

The words note and symptom are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

In what contexts can sign take the place of symptom?

Although the words sign and symptom have much in common, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

When could token be used to replace symptom?

In some situations, the words token and symptom are roughly equivalent. However, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of symptom Leg cramps can be an early symptom of congestive heart failure when blood backs up into the blood vessels and can't reach the leg muscles effectively. Sarah Hudgens, Health, 12 Dec. 2024 After years of worsening symptoms, Celena Henry was finally diagnosed with traumatic brain injury at West Virginia University's Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. Marina Kopf, NBC News, 12 Dec. 2024 But the condition can be treated with a relatively simple prescription of testosterone injections or gel, and research shows the impact can improve some of the symptoms of hypogonadism. Nicholas Florko, The Atlantic, 12 Dec. 2024 Here’s how to make this season fulfilling CNN: What kinds of symptoms should prompt someone to seek relief for stress? Katia Hetter, CNN, 12 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for symptom 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for symptom
Noun
  • People can develop mental health problems and physical manifestations such as headaches, back pain, abdominal cramping, heart palpitations and trouble concentrating.
    Katia Hetter, CNN, 12 Dec. 2024
  • Manifest your best life on Dec. 12, a time that is likely to kickstart new beginnings Comments The magical 12/12 portal on Dec. 12 is a key time for manifestation.
    Lisa Stardust, People.com, 12 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • However, there are signs the market is recovering after being battered by inflation and the Federal Reserve’s interest rate hikes.
    Laurence Darmiento, Los Angeles Times, 12 Dec. 2024
  • Symptoms like snoring, mouth breathing and a constant open-lip position are common signs.
    Maria Sokolina, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Nearly a decade ago, a journal called the Numismatic Chronicle published an article analyzing the rare coin’s characteristics—and noting some discrepancies in the alignment of its designs.
    Julia Binswanger, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Dec. 2024
  • In a letter outlining examples of actors who would fit the characteristics, Carrey — along with Jack Nicholson, Robin Williams and Dustin Hoffman — was mentioned.
    Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 12 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near symptom

Cite this Entry

“Symptom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symptom. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on symptom

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!