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

Complementing this creative force is the corporate leadership of Johnson & Johnson, whose deep commitment to health equity powers the initiative beyond symbolism. —Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025

So, there’s the domino table, and the symbolism that comes with it. —Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 18 Mar. 2025

The idea felt fresh and I was drawn to the egg’s symbolism— a representation of a new beginning. —Caroline Newton, Bon Appétit, 7 Mar. 2025

Other flower colors have symbolism, too: pink is associated with femininity and grace, while peach represents sweetness and gratitude. —Jordana Comiter, People.com, 14 Feb. 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