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

In a 5-4 decision, the court ruled that the symbolic importance of the flag does not overrule someone’s First Amendment rights, rendering the Flag Code to just a set of societal norms and traditions. —Washington Post, 21 June 2024

These New Age ideas, according to the report, are trickling into what consumers wear like symbolic jewelry and aromatherapy perfume. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 20 June 2024

Muslim pilgrims were wrapping up the Hajj pilgrimage in the deadly summer heat on Tuesday with the third day of the symbolic stoning of the devil, and the farewell circling around Kaaba in Mecca’s Grand Mosque. —Samy Magdy, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2024

The date June 19, now known as Juneteenth, has become a symbolic holiday to celebrate Black history, culture and unity. —Kevinisha Walker, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 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