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View synonyms for symbolism

symbolism

[ sim-buh-liz-uhm ]

noun

  1. the practice of representing things by symbols, or of investing things with a symbolic meaning or character.
  2. a set or system of symbols.
  3. symbolic meaning or character.
  4. the principles and practice of symbolists in art or literature.
  5. (initial capital letter) a movement of the late 19th century in French art and literature. Compare symbolist ( defs 3b, 4b ).
  6. the use of any of certain special figures or marks of identification to signify a religious message or divine being, as the cross for Christ and the Christian faith.


symbolism

/ ˈsɪmbəˌlɪzəm /

noun

  1. the representation of something in symbolic form or the attribution of symbolic meaning or character to something
  2. a system of symbols or symbolic representation
  3. a symbolic significance or quality
  4. often capital a late 19th-century movement in art that sought to express mystical or abstract ideas through the symbolic use of images See also synthetism
  5. theol any symbolist interpretation of the Eucharist
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of symbolism1

First recorded in 1645–55; symbol + -ism
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Example Sentences

On a day replete with political symbolism for both parties, Democratic and Republican leaders sought to set the tone.

There has been lots of shuttle diplomacy and symbolism since it won the general election in the summer.

From BBC

Her images are often surreal and focused on symbolism within nature.

Brian Thompson’s murder on Dec. 4 shocked many, not only for its audacity — he was gunned down in broad daylight outside a Manhattan hotel — but for its symbolism.

From Salon

What can you say about the film’s imagery and symbolism?

From Salon

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