1. Related to Icons:
* This is the original meaning of the word, referring to something that is a visual representation of something else.
* For example, a religious icon is a painting or sculpture that represents a religious figure.
* A computer icon is a small image that represents a file, program, or folder.
2. Extremely Famous and Widely Recognized:
* This is the most common meaning of the word today. An iconic person, place, object, or idea is one that is so famous, important, and recognizable that it has become a symbol or a part of popular culture.
* Examples:
* The Eiffel Tower is an iconic landmark in Paris.
* Marilyn Monroe is an iconic actress.
* The Beatles are an iconic band.
* The "peace sign" is an iconic symbol of peace and anti-war sentiment.
3. Extremely Influential:
* An iconic piece of art, literature, music, etc., can also be something that is highly influential and has had a significant impact on its field.
* Examples:
* "The Great Gatsby" is an iconic novel in American literature.
* Picasso's "Guernica" is an iconic painting of the horrors of war.
* Beethoven's Fifth Symphony is an iconic piece of classical music.
In summary, "iconic" means something that is famous, influential, and/or representative of a particular idea, place, or time. It can be applied to people, places, objects, events, and concepts.