aniconic
adjective
an·icon·ic
\¦aˌnī¦känik\
Definition of aniconic
1 : symbolic or suggestive rather than literally representational : not made or designed as a likeness trees, boulders, and other aniconic objects of primitive worship an aniconic image
2 : without idols or images : opposed to the use of idols or images an aniconic religion
From the M-W Editors
There's more!
Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:
- More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
- Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
- Advanced search features
- Ad free!
Origin and Etymology of aniconic
an- + iconic
First Known Use: 1884
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up aniconic? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!