/ sɪmˈbɒlɪk; NAmE -ˈbɑːlɪk/ adjective
symbolic (of sth) containing symbols, or being used as a symbol :
The dove is symbolic of peace.
The Channel Tunnel has enormous symbolic significance for a united Europe.
The new regulations are largely symbolic (= they will not have any real effect) .
► sym·bol·ic·al·ly / ˌsɪmˈbɒlɪkli; NAmE -ˈbɑːlɪk-/ adverb :
a symbolically significant gesture
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WORD ORIGIN
mid 17th cent.: from French symbolique or late Latin symbolicus , from Greek sumbolikos .