symbolism
noun
sym·bol·ism
ˈsim-bə-ˌli-zəm 
1
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 of the sparse attendance at the military parade and exceeding-all-attendance-expectations at the anti-Trump rallies says it all.
—
Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 June 2025
And yet, the symbolism of elevating a singular figure, particularly one who thrives on division and dominance, sits uncomfortably next to the ideals Bitcoin was built upon.
—Becca Bratcher, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025
In a Congress with an average age of 59, Foxx is trying to lean into the symbolism of generational change of which many disillusioned Democratic voters say the party is in desperate need.
—Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 June 2025
While the Marines are expected to avoid direct engagement with demonstrators, the symbolism of active-duty troops patrolling the streets of Los Angeles has reignited deep political tensions and legal debates over the limits of federal power.
—Nik Popli, Time, 11 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for symbolism
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Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 June 2025
And yet, the symbolism of elevating a singular figure, particularly one who thrives on division and dominance, sits uncomfortably next to the ideals Bitcoin was built upon.
—Becca Bratcher, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025
In a Congress with an average age of 59, Foxx is trying to lean into the symbolism of generational change of which many disillusioned Democratic voters say the party is in desperate need.
—Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 June 2025
While the Marines are expected to avoid direct engagement with demonstrators, the symbolism of active-duty troops patrolling the streets of Los Angeles has reignited deep political tensions and legal debates over the limits of federal power.
—Nik Popli, Time, 11 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for symbolism
Cite this Entry
“Symbolism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/symbolism. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
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