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Symbolism: meaning, definitions and examples

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symbolism

 

[ ˈsɪmbəˌlɪzəm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

artistic expression

Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. It is often used in art and literature to convey deeper meanings and emotions.

Synonyms

allegory, metaphor, symbolic representation

Examples of usage

  • Her painting was full of symbolism, with each color representing a different emotion.
  • The use of the rose as a symbol of love is a common example of symbolism in literature.
Context #2 | Noun

belief system

Symbolism can also refer to a system of beliefs or practices based on the use of symbols. These symbols often have specific meanings within a particular culture or religion.

Synonyms

iconography, symbolic system

Examples of usage

  • The symbolism of the cross is central to Christianity.
  • In many cultures, the owl is a symbol of wisdom and knowledge.

Translations

Translations of the word "symbolism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 simbolismo

🇮🇳 प्रतीकवाद

🇩🇪 Symbolik

🇮🇩 simbolisme

🇺🇦 символізм

🇵🇱 symbolizm

🇯🇵 象徴主義 (shōchōshugi)

🇫🇷 symbolisme

🇪🇸 simbolismo

🇹🇷 sembolizm

🇰🇷 상징주의 (sangjingjuui)

🇸🇦 رمزية

🇨🇿 symbolismus

🇸🇰 symbolizmus

🇨🇳 象征主义 (xiàngzhēng zhǔyì)

🇸🇮 simbolizem

🇮🇸 táknfræði

🇰🇿 символизм

🇬🇪 სიმბოლიზმი

🇦🇿 simvolizm

🇲🇽 simbolismo

Etymology

The term 'symbolism' originated in the late 19th century, primarily in the context of art and literature. It was associated with the Symbolist movement, which sought to express abstract ideas through symbolic images and themes. The use of symbols to convey deeper meanings has been a common practice throughout human history, with symbols playing a significant role in communication, religion, and culture.

See also: symbol, symbolic, symbolization, symbolize, symbolizing, symbols.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,834, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.