Definition

Relating to or indicating the symptoms of a disease or condition.

Example

The doctor noted that the patient's fever was symptomatic of an infection.

Conversation

I’ve been feeling a bit off lately, like I have some symptomatic issues.

Oh no! What kind of symptoms are you experiencing?

Just some fatigue and a mild headache, nothing serious.

It sounds like you should rest; sometimes those are symptomatic of needing a break.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Symptomatic → It is formed from "sympto-" (from Greek "symptoma", meaning a falling together or occurrence) and "-atic" (meaning pertaining to). The word "symptomatic" refers to something that pertains to or is characteristic of a particular symptom or condition.

Memory Tip

Think of 'symptoms' that indicate a condition — 'sympto-' relates to occurrences, and '-atic' means pertaining to. This helps you remember that 'symptomatic' describes something related to symptoms.

Visually Confused Words