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
Attending that decades-ago lecture was Titanic aficionado Jared Frederick, who has never forgotten that question − or the symbolism behind it.
—
Terry Collins, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2025
Global political leaders have frequently harnessed Exodus symbolism.
—Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 12 Apr. 2025
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens Show creator White layers symbolism throughout the series, borrowing from art, books and other cultural references.
—Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025
It's associated with Jesus and religious symbolism.
—Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for symbolism
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Terry Collins, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2025
Global political leaders have frequently harnessed Exodus symbolism.
—Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 12 Apr. 2025
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens Show creator White layers symbolism throughout the series, borrowing from art, books and other cultural references.
—Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025
It's associated with Jesus and religious symbolism.
—Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 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 23 Apr. 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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