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
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of symbolic
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani gave each Knicks player a symbolic key to the city.
—
Holly Yan,
CNN Money,
18 June 2026
In a symbolic step for the project, community members gathered on May 31 under a tent on the land for a foundation stone laying ceremony.
—
Claire Harutunian,
Charlotte Observer,
17 June 2026
Staunovo added that gold often carries symbolic significance as a national asset, creating an additional incentive to keep reserves at home.
—
Hugh Leask,
CNBC,
17 June 2026
Spectators witness not simply athletic competition but symbolic demonstrations of courage and endurance.
—
Scott Atran,
The Conversation,
17 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for symbolic
Holly Yan,
CNN Money,
18 June 2026
In a symbolic step for the project, community members gathered on May 31 under a tent on the land for a foundation stone laying ceremony.
—
Claire Harutunian,
Charlotte Observer,
17 June 2026
Staunovo added that gold often carries symbolic significance as a national asset, creating an additional incentive to keep reserves at home.
—
Hugh Leask,
CNBC,
17 June 2026
Spectators witness not simply athletic competition but symbolic demonstrations of courage and endurance.
—
Scott Atran,
The Conversation,
17 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for symbolic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for symbolic
Adjective
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And yet all three dads, simply by being there, were representative of a larger trend.
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If there is no representative payee, Social Security may choose to suspend benefits until a payee is appointed.
Adjective
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From the sitcom’s second season, Allen created an ecosystem of Black characters from varying socioeconomic backgrounds, with different ideals and goals, while showcasing both representational and aspirational models of Black excellence.
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Soon, this recognition stretched to include representational painting by younger Black artists, as museums, galleries, and collectors still more clearly signaled their progressive intent.
Adjective
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The incident, and AMD’s refusal to discuss it, is emblematic of the public relations landscape that has emerged over the past two decades.
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Madden says these documents are emblematic of the compromises that formed the American Revolution.
Cite this Entry
“Symbolic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symbolic. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.
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