Totemic
adjective
It relates to totemism, a system in which a group such as a tribe, has a symbol representing their identity and unity.
The totemic animals carved into the surface of the ancient object proved it was a relic of the tribe's history.
Often appears as...
- totemic symbol
- totemic animal
adjective
It is used to describe something as extremely important and representative of a larger category or group.
For many, Shakespeare is a totemic figure in English literature.
Often appears as...
- totemic figure
- totemic representation
Usage tips
Approving
adjective
It relates to totemism, a system in which a group such as a tribe, has a symbol representing their identity and unity.
The totemic animals carved into the surface of the ancient object proved it was a relic of the tribe's history.
Often appears as...
- totemic symbol
- totemic animal
adjective
It is used to describe something as extremely important and representative of a larger category or group.
For many, Shakespeare is a totemic figure in English literature.
Often appears as...
- totemic figure
- totemic representation
Usage tips
Approving
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Significance
Understand 'totemic' as a key part of cultural identity that a group takes pride in.
The totemic symbol is deeply rooted in our traditions.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Just Animals
'Totemic' may refer to any symbol, not just animals, that unites a group.
The totemic crest represents the family's lineage.
Pro Tip 3/3Historical Context
Often found in historical or anthropological contexts to describe ancient traditions.
Totemic artifacts were found at the ancestral site.
Compare with
characteristicdistinctiveemblematicfigurativeiconrepresentativesymbologytypical
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Video examples
Saving the World's...
often the case if you're trying to save a charismatic totemic kind of animal like the bear this amazing life-form middle of desert as you save it you end
Video examples
Saving the World's...
often the case if you're trying to save a charismatic totemic kind of animal like the bear this amazing life-form middle of desert as you save it you end
Example 1 of 1
Quote examples
Martin Filler
American Critic
The magnificent lobby of the Chrysler Building - faced with rare marbles, aglitter with decorative metalwork, and surmounted by a ceiling painted with a totemic image of the tower itself - leads to elevator cabs inlaid with exotic woods in fanciful patterns. The entire route from street to office is invested with ceremony, dignity, and delight.
Quote examples
Thomas Frank
American Author
Vibrancy is so universally desirable, so totemic in its powers, that even though we aren't sure what the word means, we know the quality it designates must be cultivated. The vibrant, we believe, is what makes certain cities flourish.
Quote examples
Melvyn Bragg
English Journalist
Magna Carta has become totemic. It is in the comedy of Tony Hancock, in the poetry of Kipling, never far from the front pages in a constitutional crisis.
Quote examples
Martin Filler
American Critic
The magnificent lobby of the Chrysler Building - faced with rare marbles, aglitter with decorative metalwork, and surmounted by a ceiling painted with a totemic image of the tower itself - leads to elevator cabs inlaid with exotic woods in fanciful patterns. The entire route from street to office is invested with ceremony, dignity, and delight.
Quote examples
Thomas Frank
American Author
Vibrancy is so universally desirable, so totemic in its powers, that even though we aren't sure what the word means, we know the quality it designates must be cultivated. The vibrant, we believe, is what makes certain cities flourish.
Quote examples
Melvyn Bragg
English Journalist
Magna Carta has become totemic. It is in the comedy of Tony Hancock, in the poetry of Kipling, never far from the front pages in a constitutional crisis.
Example 1 of 3
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