emblematic

[ em-bluh-mat-ik ]

adjective

1. pertaining to, of the nature of, or serving as an emblem; symbolic.

Other Words From

• em·blem·at·i·cal·ly adverb
• em·blem·at·i·cal·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of emblematic¹

1635–45; < Greek emblēmat-, stem of émblēma ( emblem ) + -ic

Example Sentences

His phoenixlike return was emblematic of the “Wild West” nature of the staffing world, said Pollie Pent, a former detective with the California Department of Insurance’s fraud division who now works in the insurance industry.

From New York Times

“He heard everything people said. And to me, that is just emblematic of the type of chief he will be,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

He thought it would be emblematic of Guillermo’s vampire housemates’ disregard for him, that they didn’t bother to figure out that the human who takes care of them is named “of the cross.”

From Los Angeles Times

Chambers argued that the ordeal is emblematic of flaws within the criminal justice system, which reflects her current policy positions against tough-on-crime bills.

From Los Angeles Times

“I look at these races as emblematic of how Republicans will run in the future,” Lesenyie said.

From Salon

Related Words

• typical