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

The pieces of its plot are often left floating in mid-air until their function clicks into place, via either explanation or overt symbolism. —Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 8 Mar. 2025

But, despite understanding the symbolism, Goggins wasn’t quite ready for what would happen next. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 8 Mar. 2025

Bead by bead, maskers take months crafting intricate tapestries, rich in symbolism and allegory, before constructing them into ceremonial garments ready for war. —Harriet Shepherd, Vogue, 5 Mar. 2025

So their costumes, with emblems embroidered on the chest, express their rank and there’s so much symbolism going on. —Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 1 Mar. 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