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

On your way out, ask your guide to stop by Pucara to learn about the symbolism of the town’s myriad ceramic bulls and meet with the artisan, César Lope Arapa, who makes them. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

The album framed these themes through storytelling and symbolism rather than direct confirmation. —Caché McClay, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2026

Sound symbolism has been posited as a tool in language and word acquisition for children, who start with more of a blank slate. —Literary Hub, 21 Apr. 2026

The plant’s symbolism of strength and flexibility mirrors how denim evolves, shaped by time and wear. —Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 21 Apr. 2026

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