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
1
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."
2
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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- symbolisms
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The novel is rich with religious _____.
Etymology
From symbol + -ism; the art-movement sense was borrowed from French symbolisme.
Synonyms
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symbolization
symbolisation
Related words
Rhymes for symbolism
See all rhymes for symbolism →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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