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

• representational
• representative
• metaphorical

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

Though viewed as a largely symbolic vote given its low chance of passage, the resolution’s bipartisan support belies a growing and broadening dissatisfaction with the administration’s trade regime. —Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 29 Oct. 2025

One week later, Voigt took to Instagram to share another, more symbolic way she's been able to welcome the pageant back into her life. —Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025

The success of the resolution, which needed just a simple majority to pass, may only prove symbolic. —NPR, 28 Oct. 2025

Rice had 7 catches for 87 yards and a touchdown after halftime, with one catch symbolic of the talk that started it. —Kansas City Star, 28 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing symbolic

• symbolic gesture
• symbolic logic

Rhymes for symbolic

• bucolic
• carbolic
• embolic
• glycolic
• hydraulic
• phenolic
• podzolic
• systolic
• alcoholic
• anabolic
• apostolic
• catabolic

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