Serving as a symbol or representation of something else, often abstract or intangible. The dove is symbolic of peace and harmony.
Involving the use of symbols or symbolism, often in art or literature. The painting is highly symbolic, with each color representing a different emotion.
Representing something in a simplified or conventional form. The handshake was a symbolic gesture of their agreement.
Computing/Mathematics: Relating to or employing symbols (rather than numeric values) to represent data, operations, or relationships. Symbolic computation systems can manipulate algebraic expressions exactly rather than approximately.