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 symbolism that Meghan Markle chose for her stunning New Year’s Day return to Instagram, the day before announcing her splashy new Netflix lifestyle show, could not be any more clear. —Martha Ross, The Mercury News, 2 Jan. 2025

The Princess of Wales' carol service was loaded with emotional symbolism illuminating the power of love to uplift. —Janine Henni, People.com, 6 Dec. 2024

Maui's arc in Moana 2 allowed Dwayne Johnson to reflect on his own vulnerability: 'Asking for help is a superpower' The film itself is coy about the new body art's symbolism. —Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 28 Nov. 2024

Her work focuses on intricacies, color and symbolism, drawing inspiration from the natural world and powerful storytelling. —New York Times Games, New York Times, 31 Dec. 2024

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