symbolic

Sometimes sym·bol·i·cal

[sim-bol-ik]

adjective

1. serving as a symbol of something (often followed byof ).

2. of, relating to, or expressed by a symbol.

3. characterized by or involving the use of symbols.

   a highly symbolic poem.

4. (in semantics, especially formerly) pertaining to a class of words that express only relations.

5. Computers.,  expressed in characters, usually nonnumeric, that require translation before they can be used (absolute ).

symbolic

/ sɪmˈbɒlɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to a symbol or symbols

2. serving as a symbol

3. characterized by the use of symbols or symbolism

Other Word Forms

• symbolically adverb
• symbolicalness noun
• nonsymbolic adjective
• nonsymbolical adjective
• nonsymbolically adverb
• nonsymbolicalness noun
• unsymbolic adjective
• unsymbolical adjective
• unsymbolically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of symbolic¹

First recorded in 1650–60; from Late Latin symbolicus, from Greek symbolikós; symbol, -ic

Example Sentences

Even among those who voted to pause weapons shipments, the accompanying statements suggest that their votes are intended as symbolic opposition to the current humanitarian situation and not necessarily to Israel’s larger bombardment of Gaza.

From Salon

“It’s symbolic of what’s happening — the downsizing of life and the handing over of control.”

From Los Angeles Times

In June, a yacht carrying Thunberg and several other activists - and a symbolic amount of humanitarian aid - was intercepted by Israeli forces as it tried to reach Gaza.

From BBC

The summit itself is largely symbolic but will allow leaders to air common grievances and shared interests – and this year the gathering will be overshadowed by trade wars with the US.

From BBC

The "delisting now is surely symbolic but it's such a milestone," Ms Wang says.

From BBC

Related Words

• allegorical 
• emblematic 
• figurative 
• significant 
• symptomatic 
• token 
• typical