symbolic

Pronunciation: /sɪmˈbɒlɪk/

adjective

Difficulty: common

Definition of symbolic

Serving as a symbol; representing or suggesting something abstract or intangible through a concrete form, often carrying deeper meaning or significance.

Origin of symbolic

Language of origin: Greek

Root word: symbolikos

Original meaning: pertaining to symbols

How it evolved: The concept moved from Greek philosophical contexts into Latin and later Old French, eventually entering English to describe representation through signs or imagery.

The word 'symbolic' originates from the Greek word 'symbolikos,' which pertains to symbols and signs used to convey abstract ideas.

First known use: 1650s

How to Remember symbolic

Think of 'symbolic' as 'symbol-like'; if something is symbolic, it acts like a symbol, representing more than what it appears to be.

Synonyms for symbolic

Antonyms of symbolic

symbolic in a Sentence

  1. The dove is symbolic of peace, often used in art and literature to evoke serenity and reconciliation.
  2. Her speech was loaded with symbolic references to freedom and justice, resonating deeply with the audience.
  3. The use of the red rose in the film was symbolic of both love and sacrifice, adding layers of meaning to the narrative.

symbolic in Literature & Culture

Symbolic language is a cornerstone of literature, from Shakespeare's use of symbols like the raven and dagger to modern poetry and film that use imagery to convey emotions and themes.

Usage Notes

The word 'symbolic' often carries connotations of deeper or abstract meanings, making it useful in literary and philosophical contexts. It is distinct from 'literal,' which refers to the exact, surface-level meaning.

Why symbolic Matters for GRE & SAT

Symbolic is a high-frequency word on the GRE, often appearing in reading comprehension passages discussing art, literature, or philosophy, where abstract representation is key.

Word Family

symbol (noun)
A mark or sign that represents an idea or concept.
symbolism (noun)
The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.
symbolize (verb)
To represent or stand for something through a symbol.

Did You Know?

  • The concept of symbolism is central to many artistic movements, such as Symbolism in late 19th-century European art and literature.
  • In mathematics, a 'symbolic' representation refers to the use of symbols rather than numerical values, such as in symbolic algebra.
  • The use of symbolic imagery is prominent in religious texts, where objects like water, fire, and light often hold deeper spiritual meanings.
  • analogy
  • abstract
  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior

More Vocabulary Words Starting with S

  • Sycophant — A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sadistic — taking pleasure in causing pain or suffering to others
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • sagacious — demonstrating wisdom or sound judgment
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salubrious — promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • salutary — beneficial, especially in promoting health or well-being
  • sanctimonious — giving the impression that one is morally superior