totemic

[toh-tem-ik]

adjective

1. of, being, or relating to a natural object or animate being, as an animal or bird, assumed as the emblem of a clan, family, or group.

   Crocodiles are regarded as totemic animals in some parts of Africa, connected with a group's origin, ancestors, and place.

2. of, being, or relating to anything regarded as a distinctive or venerated emblem by a group or individual.

   I explained that the great horse trilogy, My Friend Flicka, was one of the most vivid and totemic elements of my childhood.

   This has been a totemic issue for their party over the years, literally a signature policy during the last election.

Other Word Forms

• subtotemic adjective
• totemically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of totemic¹

First recorded in 1840–50; totem ( def. ) + -ic

Example Sentences

The CST said: "Both of these cases illustrate how sentiment and rhetoric towards Israel and Zionism influence, shape and drive contemporary anti-Jewish discourse, online and offline, often around totemic events that grab mainstream public attention."

From BBC

He said the trust cared for the "totemic symbol" on behalf of the nation and it "belonged to the people".

From BBC

The Sycamore Gap wasn't a particularly ancient tree, nor a native species, but its position gave it a totemic status.

From BBC

Furlong is a totemic Lion but he has not been at his devastating best on tour so far.

From BBC

High-rise New York apartments have acquired totemic significance for the superrich.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• familial 
• tribal