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 the symbolism of releasing a bald eagle so close to the Fourth of July wasn’t lost on Ammann A group of about a hundred viewers gathered to watch Kere take flight above the forests and fields. —Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 6 July 2025

Inspired by iconic symbolism and themes found within My Morning Jacket’s music and artwork, along with the dynamic energy of LouCity and Racing Lou FC, each piece in this limited-edition collection celebrates the vibrant cultural tapestry of Louisville. —Kirby Adams, The Courier-Journal, 2 July 2025

The Year of the Snake, with its symbolism of shedding old skin, seems fitting for a business that has not only survived, but thrived, despite the unforeseen challenges of the past few years. —Deborah Sengupta Stith, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025

Every card is rich with symbolism: adorned with pentacles, stars, chalices and wands; bearing names like the World, Justice and Temperance; and featuring enigmatic characters like the Fool, the Lovers or the Hermit. —John Last, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 June 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