Thesaurus results for SYMPTOM

Q: How is the word 'symptom' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of symptom are mark , note , sign , and token . While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition. // rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

Q: Where would 'mark' be a reasonable alternative to 'symptom'?

While in some cases nearly identical to symptom , mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance. // a mark of a good upbringing

Q: When is 'note' a more appropriate choice than 'symptom'?

The words note and symptom are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic. // a note of irony in her writing

Q: In what contexts can 'sign' take the place of 'symptom'?

Although the words sign and symptom have much in common, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason. // encouraging signs for the economy

Q: When could 'token' be used to replace 'symptom'?

In some situations, the words token and symptom are roughly equivalent. However, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible. // this gift is a token of our esteem

symptom

noun

Definition of symptom next

as in manifestation

something that indicates the presence of something else (such as a disease or problem) A sore throat, a runny nose, and frequent sneezing are some of the symptoms of the common cold. Homelessness is only a symptom of larger problems in our society.

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How is the word symptom distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of symptom are mark, note, sign, and token. While all these words mean "a discernible indication of what is not itself directly perceptible," symptom suggests an outward indication of an internal change or condition.

rampant crime is a symptom of that city's decay

Where would mark be a reasonable alternative to symptom?

While in some cases nearly identical to symptom, mark suggests something impressed on or inherently characteristic of a thing often in contrast to general outward appearance.

a mark of a good upbringing

When is note a more appropriate choice than symptom?

The words note and symptom are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, note suggests a distinguishing mark or characteristic.

a note of irony in her writing

In what contexts can sign take the place of symptom?

Although the words sign and symptom have much in common, sign applies to any indication to be perceived by the senses or the reason.

encouraging signs for the economy

When could token be used to replace symptom?

In some situations, the words token and symptom are roughly equivalent. However, token applies to something that serves as a proof of something intangible.

this gift is a token of our esteem

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of symptom The rash fades after four to seven days as symptoms go away. —

Chris Mueller, Sioux Falls Argus Leader, 5 Feb. 2026 Untangling these two distinct symptom profiles could potentially inform future treatments of the condition. —

Eva Cornman, Hartford Courant, 5 Feb. 2026 But unlike some other disabilities or impairments, symptoms of hearing loss can appear subtle to those not experiencing it. —

Hannah Silverman, Parents, 5 Feb. 2026 Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. —

Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for symptom

Recent Examples of Synonyms for symptom

Noun

But on Monday, the French pharma firm reported that clinical trial results showed its experimental oral drug venglustat improved the neurological manifestations of what’s known as type 3 Gaucher disease, which can include poor muscle coordination and cognitive issues.

— Andrew Joseph, STAT, 2 Feb. 2026
Eventually there will be a physical manifestation of the Hall, a building somewhere with plaques and memorabilia and exhibits honoring the rich history of sports in Southern California, but that will be at the back end.

— Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 31 Jan. 2026

Definition of manifestation

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symptom

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“Symptom.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/symptom. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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Last Updated: 14 Feb 2026 - Updated example sentences

Synonyms of symptom

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