Symbolically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• Using colors can symbolize emotions; for example, red often symbolizes anger or passion.
• In dreams, symbols often represent hidden thoughts or desires that our minds are trying to express.
• Psychologists suggest that interpreting symbols can help in understanding personal and cultural messages.

Literature

• Authors often use symbols to convey deeper meanings in their work, allowing readers to interpret themes beyond the surface.
• In Shakespeare's works, for example, the use of specific objects or colors frequently symbolizes key traits or ideas within the story.
• The concept of symbolically rich language adds depth, making readers think and feel more profoundly about the narrative.

Cultural Significance

• Different cultures have unique symbols; for example, the lotus flower symbolizes purity in many Asian cultures.
• In Western cultures, the skull and crossbones symbol is commonly associated with danger or death.
• Religious symbols, like the cross in Christianity or the crescent in Islam, carry profound meanings for their respective followers.

Art

• Artists often use visual symbols to express complex ideas, making their artwork resonate on multiple levels.
• In abstract art, colors and shapes symbolize emotions or concepts, rather than depicting literal forms.
• The surrealist movement embraced symbolism, transforming everyday objects into multi-layered meaning.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'symbolically' comes from the Greek word 'symbolon', which means a token or sign.
• The prefix 'sym-' means together, and 'bole' means to throw, reflecting how symbols throw meanings together.
• The term became more common during the Renaissance, when there was a revival of interest in symbols in art and literature.

The word 'symbolically' originates from the term 'symbolic', which traces back to the Greek word 'symbolikos' (συμβολικός), meaning 'having the nature of a symbol.' This, in turn, comes from 'symbolon' (σύμβολον), which means 'that which is thrown together,' a term used to refer to a token or sign that bears a deeper meaning. The adverb form 'symbolically' was formed to describe actions or meanings that are representative in nature, often used in literature and art to explore themes beyond their surface appearance. Symbolism as a literary and artistic movement emerged prominently in the late 19th century, reinforcing the use of the term in both everyday and academic discourse.

With rank #16,097, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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