symbolical

symbolical

UK[sɪmˈbɒlɪkəl]US[sɪmˈbɑːlɪkəl]
adj

Relating to, using, or serving as a symbol; representing something else, often an idea or quality.

adj

(Of an action or event) having a significance beyond its literal meaning; emblematic.

Morpheme Breakdown

symbol
ic
al
symbol

sign, token.

ic

of, pertaining to, or characterized by.

al

Etymology

The word 'symbolical' is a layered adjectival formation built upon the Greek noun 'symbolon,' which originally denoted a physical object broken in two as a token of identity or pledge between two parties. This concrete sense of a token representing an agreement evolved into the abstract concept of a sign representing an idea. The Greek adjectival suffix '-ikos' was Latinized into '-icus' and then into English '-ic,' attaching to 'symbol' to create 'symbolic,' meaning "of or pertaining to a symbol." The additional Latinate suffix '-al' was later appended, a common practice in English to reinforce or slightly formalize the adjectival form, resulting in the double-suffixed 'symbolical.' The term's logic traces a path from a tangible token of recognition to the modern abstract sense of serving as a representative figure or emblem.

Analysis

Structure: symbol + ic + al - symbol: From Greek 'symbolon' (token, pledge, sign). The core lexical root meaning "sign, token." - ic: From Greek '-ikos' via Latin '-icus'. An adjective-forming suffix meaning "of, pertaining to, or characterized by." - al: From Latin '-alis'. An adjective-forming suffix that reinforces or specifies the adjectival quality.

Examples

The dove is a symbolical representation of peace.

The author's use of the storm was symbolical of the character's inner turmoil.

The ceremony was rich with symbolical gestures that connected the present to ancient traditions.