symbolism

noun

sym·​bol·​ism ˈsim-bə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: the art or practice of using symbols especially by investing things with a symbolic meaning or by expressing the invisible or intangible by means of visible or sensuous representations: such as

a

: artistic imitation or invention that is a method of revealing or suggesting immaterial, ideal, or otherwise intangible truth or states

b

: the use of conventional or traditional signs in the representation of divine beings and spirits

2

: a system of symbols or representations

Examples of symbolism in a Sentence

The story was filled with religious symbolism.

Recent Examples on the Web

But its importance extends beyond symbolism and identity. —Zeena Saifi, CNN Money, 7 Nov. 2025

The symbolism of a Caucasian family welcoming a stranger — an immigrant who doesn’t look like them — to share their abode, forcefully counters how immigrants to our shores often are othered and ostracized. —Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 5 Nov. 2025

Advertisement The end of the Cuomo era The symbolism of Cuomo’s defeat was not lost on anyone in the ballroom Tuesday night. —Nik Popli, Time, 5 Nov. 2025

The drawings include human figures, animals, and mysterious geometric patterns, offering a glimpse into the symbolism and daily life of early inhabitants. —Aaron Randolph, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for symbolism

• autism
• fascism
• racism
• sikhism
• statism
• sufism
• thomism
• tourism
• tropism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism

Kids Definition

symbolism

noun

sym·​bol·​ism ˈsim-bə-ˌliz-əm 

1

: the art or practice of using symbols

2

: a system of symbols or representations

Medical Definition

symbolism

noun

sym·​bol·​ism ˈsim-bə-ˌliz-əm 

: the art or practice of using symbols especially by investing things with a symbolic meaning or by expressing the invisible or intangible by means of visible or sensuous representations