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

Example Sentences

The story was filled with religious symbolism.

Recent Examples on the Web

Some others looked more deeply into the symbolism, whether intentional or unintentional, of the gown beyond it being worn by a Black woman in a historically white space. —Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 13 Mar. 2023

But for Black Americans born into poverty in the Jim Crow South, as Armstrong and Rowe were, that symbolism — Independence Day, the dawn of the century — is significant. —Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Mar. 2023

The seder is full of symbolism, history, and traditional foods. —Jamie Kravitz, Woman's Day, 7 Mar. 2023

This is explored through baking, and in particular, the symbolism of the turtle–coming out of its shell and moving forward; however slowly that may be. —Christian Holub, EW.com, 2 Mar. 2023

The different colors of carnations also have their own symbolism, like white carnations for good luck or pink carnations for gratitude. —Jenny Krane, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Feb. 2023

Believed to have originated during China’s Shang Dynasty, Lunar New Year carries with it a trove of traditions that are based on a combination of history, symbolism, superstition and myth. —Minhae Shim Roth, Good Housekeeping, 28 Dec. 2022

The religious symbolism, the imagery of home, the technical innovation — all are signature aspects of the pgLang ethos. —Mitchell S. Jackson, New York Times, 27 Dec. 2022

For resourceful Icelanders, greenhouses have long held a special symbolism, representing growth, health, and the ability to harness the earth’s boundless energy. —Mosha Lundström Halbert, Vogue, 23 Dec. 2022

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Word History

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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