symptom

as in manifestation
something that indicates the presence of something else (such as a disease or problem) A sore throat, a runny nose, and frequent sneezing are some of the symptoms of the common cold. Homelessness is only a symptom of larger problems in our society.

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word symptom distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of symptom are mark, note, sign, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

Where would mark be a reasonable alternative to symptom?

While in some cases nearly identical to symptom, mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When is note a more appropriate choice than symptom?

The words note and symptom are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

In what contexts can sign take the place of symptom?

Although the words sign and symptom have much in common, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

When could token be used to replace symptom?

In some situations, the words token and symptom are roughly equivalent. However, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

Example Sentences

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 symptom One of Sappho’s poem fragments also helped align the symptoms with love-sickness. Matthew Wills, JSTOR Daily, 27 Sep. 2025 What are the symptoms of lead poisoning? Jonathan Limehouse, USA Today, 27 Sep. 2025 Although any of these symptoms might call for the intervention of a mental health professional, in this case an expert would be able to teach emotional regulation techniques to a child in need of those skills. Ashleigh N. Deluca, Parents, 26 Sep. 2025 Eventually, nerve cells—particularly those in the part of the brain that regulates movement and cognitive skills like motivation, habit formation, and decision-making—degrade, leading to physical and cognitive symptoms. Alice Park, Time, 26 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for symptom
Recent Examples of Synonyms for symptom
Noun
  • Camping, in all its modern manifestations, has become an increasingly popular and affordable go-to strategy for families eager to get outside and enjoy meaningful time together.
    Lynn O'Rourke Hayes, Boston Herald, 28 Sep. 2025
  • The science around this condition continues to evolve, and the physical and mental manifestations of CTE remain under study.
    Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 26 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The kids associate helicopters with life flights to the local hospital, a sign that someone has been seriously injured, Cornelison said.
    John Wisely, Freep.com, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Eddie Howe will hope Newcastle’s 4-0 thumping of USG is the first sign of their new-look front line gelling, with Nick Woltemade, Anthony Gordon (two penalties) and Harvey Barnes all on target.
    Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Early on, astronomers were able to determine with a high degree of certainty that the object is a comet, but work has continued to get a better idea of its size and phyisical characteristics.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 2 Oct. 2025
  • Each house will be defined by a sign with certain characteristics that will map out your life.
    Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Symptom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symptom. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

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