Definitions for symbolism
ˈsɪm bəˌlɪz əmsym·bol·ism

Princeton's WordNetRate this definition:3.8 / 8 votes

1. symbolismnoun

   a system of symbols and symbolic representations

2. symbolism, symbolization, symbolisationnoun

   the practice of investing things with symbolic meaning

3. symbolismnoun

   an artistic movement in the late 19th century that tried to express abstract or mystical ideas through the symbolic use of images

WiktionaryRate this definition:3.0 / 2 votes

1. symbolismnoun

   Representation of a concept through symbols or underlying meanings of objects or qualities.

Webster DictionaryRate this definition:5.0 / 1 vote

1. Symbolismnoun

   the act of symbolizing, or the state of being symbolized; as, symbolism in Christian art is the representation of truth, virtues, vices, etc., by emblematic colors, signs, and forms

2. Symbolismnoun

   a system of symbols or representations

3. Symbolismnoun

   the practice of using symbols, or the system of notation developed thereby

4. Symbolismnoun

   a combining together of parts or ingredients

5. Symbolismnoun

   the science of creeds; symbolics

The Nuttall EncyclopediaRate this definition:0.0 / 0 votes

1. Symbolism

   has been divided into two kinds, symbolism of colour and symbolism of form. Of colours, black typifies grief and death; blue, hope, love of divine works, divine contemplation, piety, sincerity; pale blue, power, Christian prudence, love of good works, serene conscience; gold, glory and power; green, faith, immortality, resurrection, gladness; pale green, baptism; grey, tribulation; purple, justice, royalty; red, martyrdom for faith, charity, divine love; rose-colour, martyrdom; saffron, confessors; scarlet, fervour and glory; silver, chastity and purity; violet, penitence; white, purity, temperance, innocence, chastity, and faith in God. Instances of form: Anchor typifies hope; palm, victory; sword, death or martyrdom; the lamb, Christ; unicorn, purity. Of stones, moreover, the amethyst typifies humility; diamond, invulnerable faith; sardonyx, sincerity; sapphire, hope, &c.

U.S. National Library of MedicineRate this definition:0.0 / 0 votes

1. Symbolism

   A concept that stands for or suggests something else by reason of its relationship, association, convention, or resemblance. The symbolism may be mental or a visible sign or representation. (From Webster, 3d ed)

Matched Categories

1. • Artistic Movement
   • Symbol

How to pronounce symbolism?

1. Alex

   US English

   David

   US English

   Mark

   US English

   Daniel

   British

   Libby

   British

   Mia

   British

   Karen

   Australian

   Hayley

   Australian

   Natasha

   Australian

   Veena

   Indian

   Priya

   Indian

   Neerja

   Indian

   Zira

   US English

   Oliver

   British

   Wendy

   British

   Fred

   US English

   Tessa

   South African

How to say symbolism in sign language?

Numerology

1. Chaldean Numerology

   The numerical value of symbolism in Chaldean Numerology is: 1

2. Pythagorean Numerology

   The numerical value of symbolism in Pythagorean Numerology is: 1

Examples of symbolism in a Sentence

1. Thomas Spencer:

   The first parade has some pretty overt racial symbolism and intimidation. The VP was armed, and there was an executioner’s block on the float, etc..

2. Gerald Eskenazi:

   Don't forget, this still was the Sixties, long hair was controversial and the establishment was being given a battle from upstart newcomers, the symbolism was perfect, and it was all there.

3. Joe Boland:

   The symbolism of this moment will not be missed by anyone in the border region, it will be like the Pope coming to Ellis Island.

4. Robert Kennedy:

   We look at the symbolism, the water is symbolic also.

5. Adi Dubash:

   I think it matters because symbolism is important. I think having that reflected in your leaders is important, but I think he has got the right idea because he embraces his identity and he wants people to know his identity but it is not all who he is.

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