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

In December, the tribunal issued its final judgment in The Hague—a symbolic choice given the city’s role as a center of international justice—upholding the charge of gender persecution. — Rina Amiri, Foreign Affairs, 14 Aug. 2026

Nebius hosted a groundbreaking ceremony in May, which data center opponents have described as symbolic, arguing that the project cannot formally move into construction without a final site plan approved by the city. — Ilana Arougheti updated August 14, Kansas City Star, 14 Aug. 2026

In symbolic moves, WBD shareholders voted against Zaslav’s golden-parachute package and his 2025 compensation plan. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 13 Aug. 2026

These fears, while unfounded, were indicative of something much worse—and marked a new, ominous chapter in the whale’s evolving symbolic import. — Naomi Skwarna, hazlitt.net, 13 Aug. 2026