Iconic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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iconic

[aɪˈkɒnɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

pop culture

Widely recognized and well-established, especially in the context of popular culture.

Synonyms

celebrated, famous, legendary, renowned.

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Word Description / Examples
iconic

Used to describe something or someone that is representative of a culture or an era, often recognized instantly.

  • The Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris
  • Marilyn Monroe's white dress scene is iconic in movie history
legendary

Refers to someone or something that has achieved almost mythical status, often through long-standing stories or accomplishments.

  • Achilles is a legendary hero from Greek mythology
  • The Beatles are legendary musicians who changed the face of music
famous

Describes someone or something well-known to the public, often due to media coverage or notable actions.

  • Leonardo DiCaprio is a famous actor
  • The Grand Canyon is famous for its stunning views
celebrated

Implies being widely praised and acknowledged for achievements or qualities, often during special occasions or ceremonies.

  • She is a celebrated author known for her thought-provoking novels
  • The artist was celebrated with an award for his contributions
renowned

Emphasizes widespread respect and admiration, often in a particular field or due to significant contributions.

  • The chef is renowned for his innovative cuisine
  • She is renowned for her groundbreaking research in biology

Examples of usage

  • That movie is considered iconic in the film industry.
  • Her iconic hairstyle became a trendsetter.
  • The iconic singer left a lasting impact on the music industry.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Iconic characters like Superman or Mickey Mouse have shaped entire cultures and are symbols of their respective industries.
  • Certain songs, like 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen or 'Thriller' by Michael Jackson, are considered iconic because they have left a lasting impact on music history.

Art and Literature

  • Iconic artworks, such as the Mona Lisa, are cherished not only for their beauty but also for what they represent in art history.
  • Literary works like '1984' by George Orwell or 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen are iconic for their themes and enduring influence on society.

Science and Technology

  • The Apollo 11 mission is often regarded as an iconic achievement in space exploration, symbolizing human ingenuity and exploration.
  • The invention of the iPhone revolutionized communication and is considered an iconic product in the tech industry.

Fashion

  • The little black dress is an iconic fashion staple, representing elegance and versatility in women's fashion.
  • Designers like Coco Chanel and Alexander McQueen have created garments that are iconic, leaving a mark on the fashion world.

Origin of 'iconic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'iconic' comes from the Greek 'eikon', meaning 'image' or 'likeness', highlighting its connection to representation.
  • It started being used in English in the mid-20th century to describe things that are representative of a particular style or trend.

The word 'iconic' originates from the Greek word 'eikōn', meaning 'image' or 'resemblance'. It first appeared in English in the late 17th century. Over time, 'iconic' has come to represent something that is widely recognized and represents a particular era or style, especially in popular culture.


See also: icon, iconoclast, iconography, iconolatry, icons, laconicism.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,862, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.