SYMBOLISTIC Synonyms: 19 Similar and Opposite Words

symbolistic

adjective

Definition of symbolistic

as in symbolist

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of symbolistic Williams was the group’s poet but also its madcap, blending a symbolistic worldview with a devilish sense of humor. — Ethan Mordden, WSJ, 9 Mar. 2018 The symbolistic use of the color red, worn by the accusing girls, is contrasted with the more subdued colors of the accused. — Orange County Register, 27 Jan. 2017

Recent Examples of Synonyms for symbolistic

Adjective

Another adopted a symbolist approach, breaking the novel down into its constituent elements and tracing each back to signs and symbols in Iranian culture and history.

— Amir Ahmadi Arian, The Dial, 15 Jan. 2026

Definition of symbolist

Adjective

Yet an outstanding cast, scripts that are perceptive about grief and remorse, and Hennie’s impressionistic directing more than make up for it.

— Judy Berman, Time, 8 July 2026
Dreams of Violets can feel disjointed in spots, but perhaps not more than any impressionistic movie about a crisis.

— Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 11 June 2026

Definition of impressionistic

Adjective

Raimi and his collaborators go all out, ramping up the expressionistic filmmaking and embracing a clearer tone of comical absurdity.

— Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 10 July 2026
In his songs, the English language turned woolier and more expressionistic; musical space-time distended and stretched.

— New York Times, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2026

Definition of expressionistic

Adjective

Reading Europe’s fate through the lives of two French sisters in a famous impressionist portrait.

— Luke Lyman, Washington Post, 13 July 2026
As Maher walked on stage to receive his award from 2014 awardee Leno, up stepped impressionist Friend from the audience to interrupt the proceedings.

— Paul Harris, Variety, 29 June 2026

Definition of impressionist

Adjective

By the 1980s, Baselitz’s profile began to expand beyond Germany, when he was exhibited in dialogue with figurative painters sharing his expressionist leanings, including Italy’s Sandro Chia and Francesco Clemente.

— Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 30 Apr. 2026
The film is full of gorgeously expressionist black-and-white photography, stunning otherworldly production design, and a subtle sense of foreboding throughout that's one of the best the director has mustered in his illustrious career.

— Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Apr. 2026

Definition of expressionist

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symbolistic

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“Symbolistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symbolistic. Accessed 20 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of symbolistic

adjective

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