symptomatic
UK: /ˌsɪmptəˈmætɪk/ | US: /ˌsɪmptəˈmætɪk/
adj. serving as a symptom or sign (of a disease or condition)
adj. characteristic or indicative of a particular situation or problem
The word "symptomatic" derives from the Greek "symptōma" (σύμπτωμα), meaning "a happening, accident, or symptom," combined with the adjectival suffix "-atic." The root "sym-" (together) + "ptōma" (falling) originally referred to coincidental occurrences, later narrowing to medical contexts as "observable signs of illness." The suffix "-atic" (via Latin "-aticus") generalizes the term into an adjective. Over time, "symptomatic" expanded beyond medicine to describe anything indicative of an underlying issue.
A fever is often symptomatic of an infection.
The economic downturn is symptomatic of deeper structural problems.
Her fatigue was symptomatic of sleep deprivation.
The cracks in the walls are symptomatic of foundation issues.
His silence was symptomatic of his disapproval.