symbolic

The definition of symbolic is serving as a representation or is something that has a greater meaning because of what it represents.

(adjective)

  1. Smiling is an example of a symbolic gesture of welcome.
  2. Writing a letter to someone you have been fueding with for years is an example of a symbolic gesture that can signify forgiveness.

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See symbolic in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

  1. of or expressed in a symbol or symbols
  2. that serves as a symbol (of something)
  3. characterized by symbolism

Origin: LL symbolicus < Gr symbolikos

Related Forms:

See symbolic in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
  1. Of, relating to, or expressed by means of symbols or a symbol.
  2. Serving as a symbol.
  3. Using symbolism: symbolic art.

Related Forms:

  • sym·bolˈi·cal·ly adverb
  • sym·bolˈi·cal·ness noun

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