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⇱ ANICONIC Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

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aniconic

adjective

an·​icon·​ic
¦aˌnī¦känik
1
: symbolic or suggestive rather than literally representational : not made or designed as a likeness
trees, boulders, and other aniconic objects of primitive worship
an aniconic image
2
: without idols or images : opposed to the use of idols or images
an aniconic religion

Word History

Etymology

an- + iconic

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of aniconic was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Aniconic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aniconic. Accessed 9 Apr. 2026.

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