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

Her images are often surreal and focused on symbolism within nature. —Bakr Muhammad, Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2024

Instead, Feldman sticks to the broader symbolism of searching for a home, on the buyers’ side, and how a house becomes haunted with decades of memories, on the sellers’. —Alison Herman, Variety, 12 Dec. 2024

Early human collective practices and symbolism in the Early Upper Paleolithic of Southwest Asia Nature. —Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 9 Dec. 2024

Aside from being a convenient gift-opening snack, citrus stocking stuffers have a history rooted in symbolism, religion, and even the Great Depression. —Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 3 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