Main Entry: sym·bol·ic
Pronunciation: \sim-ˈbä-lik\
Variant(s): also sym·bol·i·cal \-li-kəl\
Function: adjective
Date: 1610
1 a : using, employing, or exhibiting a symbol b : consisting of or proceeding by means of symbols
2 : of, relating to, or constituting a symbol
3 : characterized by or terminating in symbols <symbolic thinking>
4 : characterized by symbolism <a symbolic dance>
— sym·bol·i·cal·ly \-li-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

Main Entry: sym·bol·ism
Pronunciation: \ˈsim-bə-ˌli-zəm\
Function: noun
Date: 1654
1 : the art or practice of using symbols esp. by investing things with a symbolic meaning or by expressing the invisible or intangible by means of visible or sensuous representations: as a : artistic imitation or invention that is a method of revealing or suggesting immaterial, ideal, or otherwise intangible truth or states b : the use of conventional or traditional signs in the representation of divine beings and spirits
2 : a system of symbols or representations

cambridge on line

symbolic adjective

/sɪmˈbɒl.ɪk//-ˈbɑː.lɪk/ adj
(also
symbolical

)
•
representing something else
The skull at the bottom of the picture is symbolic of death.

•
describes an action that expresses or seems to express an intention or feeling, but which has little practical influence on a situation
Five hundred troops were sent in, more as a symbolic gesture than as a real threat.