symbolic

adjective

sym·bol·ic | \ sim-ˈbä-lik

variants: or less commonly symbolical \ sim-ˈbä-li-kəl

Definition of symbolic

1a : 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

Other Words from symbolic Synonyms & Antonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about symbolic

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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

Holmes says Meghan's choice to go barehanded is also symbolic of her wanting to connect with the public. — Caroline Hallemann, Town & Country, "The Reason Meghan Markle Holds Her Gloves But Doesn't Actually Wear Them," 2 Feb. 2019 Things get confusing when the Roc Nation signee freakishly rips off his right arm and leg, which is symbolic of the crippling effect capitalism has on American citizens. — Michael Saponara, Billboard, "J. Cole Focuses On Society's Ills in Trippy New 'ATM' Video," 20 Apr. 2018 It is noted for its symbolic design of forget-me-not flowers tied with ribbon bows and arrows representing Cupid. — Stellene Volandes, Town & Country, "Two Rare Fabergé Tiaras With Ties to the Russian Royal Family Are Up for Auction," 10 Apr. 2019 In a show this symbolic, the devil is in the details — and the lipstick. — Leah Prinzivalli, Allure, "Chilling Adventures of Sabrina," 5 Apr. 2019 Costly gestures with unclear impacts aren’t a good place to encourage symbolic stands. — Kelsey Piper, Vox, "“Impact investment” funds advertise great returns and social impacts. They aren’t delivering.," 18 Dec. 2018 Originally a single purpose shock site, Goatse has turned into a symbolic meme, a way to turn any vaguely circular image into something unspeakably filthy. — Russell Brandom, The Verge, "Celebrated artist Richard Serra has been making Goatses his entire career," 23 Sep. 2018 Humans haven't returned to deep space since, so there is symbolic power there. — Eric Berger, Ars Technica, "SpaceX says its BFR will fly someone around the Moon; we have questions," 14 Sep. 2018 The company's use of air—as opposed to stones, which have been more traditionally used in the softening of tough fabrics like linen—is not just symbolic. — Amanda Sims, House Beautiful, "Snowe’s New Linen Sheets Are Literally Air-Whipped for Fluffiness," 27 Feb. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'symbolic.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.