symbolic

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   Standing for or representing something else, often an idea or feeling.

   Lighting the candle was a symbolic act of remembrance.

2. 2
   adj

   Using symbols or full of symbolism.

   The painting is rich in symbolic detail.

3. 3
   adj

   Done as a gesture rather than for any real, practical effect.

   The small fine was a symbolic punishment more than a serious one.

From French symbolique or directly from Latin symbolicus, from Ancient Greek συμβολικός (sumbolikós, “of or belonging to a symbol”), equivalent to symbol + -ic.

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