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

That symbolism was so important to Molly, that everything about this world is people social climbing and class and status. —Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 22 May 2025

But the symbolism was enough to ignite fierce debate. —Hanna Kang, Oc Register, 22 May 2025

Away from politics, Sunday’s proceedings were replete with religious symbolism and Leo, who wore traditional white vestments, at times appeared visibly moved. —Matthew Mpoke Bigg, New York Times, 18 May 2025

The symbolism of the name could be a nod to Saint Leo the Great, a doctrinally influential early pope. —Kate Nalepinski, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 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