noun Uncommon

symbolism

SIHM-buh-lih-zuhm

Symbolism (noun) means the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. Example: “The novel is rich with religious symbolism.”

noun

The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.

"The novel is rich with religious symbolism."

"Colour symbolism plays a big part in the film's visual style."

An artistic movement from late 19th-century France and Belgium that used symbols and suggestive imagery instead of literal realism.

"The painter's dreamlike canvases are considered a landmark of Symbolism."

How to use symbolism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe use of images or objects to represent deeper ideas, especially in art and literature.

Common pairings

rich in symbolism religious symbolism the symbolism of

Word forms

symbolisms plural

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The novel is rich with religious _____.

Etymology

From symbol + -ism; the art-movement sense was borrowed from French symbolisme.

Origin: French

Synonyms

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symbolization symbolisation

Related words

symbolization

Rhymes for symbolism

embolism metabolism alcoholism

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Frequently asked questions

What does “symbolism” mean?

The word “symbolism” means the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. In plain terms, the use of images or objects to represent deeper ideas, especially in art and literature.

How do you pronounce “symbolism”?

“Symbolism” is pronounced SIHM-buh-lih-zuhm (/ˈsɪmbəˌlɪzəm/ in IPA).

How do you use “symbolism” in a sentence?

Here is “symbolism” used in a sentence: “The novel is rich with religious symbolism.”

What part of speech is “symbolism”?

“Symbolism” is a noun.

Where does the word “symbolism” come from?

The word “symbolism” comes from French. From symbol + -ism; the art-movement sense was borrowed from French symbolisme.

Is “symbolism” a common word?

“Symbolism” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “symbolism” have?

“Symbolism” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.

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