Synonyms of symbolic

symbolic

adjective

sim-ˈbä-lik 

variants also symbolical

as in representative

having the function or meaning of an object or figure that stands for something else

the butterfly in the poem is symbolic of the impermanence of youth

Synonyms & Similar Words

• representative
• representational
• emblematic
• metaphoric
• figurative
• figural
• tropological
• allegorical

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• actual
• literal
• nonsymbolic

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of symbolic

Kardashian isn’t the first high-profile star in recent history to ask a court for a symbolic payout. — Emily St. Martin, Los Angeles Times, 16 Sep. 2026

Seven Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the largely symbolic measure registering opposition to the conflict. — Noah Robertson, Washington Post, 16 Sep. 2026

Piddington, England — A tiny English village has voted overwhelmingly to leave the United Kingdom in a symbolic referendum triggered by government plans to house more than 1,200 male asylum seekers at a former military site nearby. — Inaya Folarin Iman, CBS News, 16 Sep. 2026

While dragonflies are often symbolic of transformation, adaptability, and wisdom, Godrich explains that the meaning behind the band’s name represents his and Harrison’s friendship. — Charles Moss, SPIN, 16 Sep. 2026