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
Historians and political opponents say the timing carries powerful symbolism, an accusation the AfD rejects.
—
ABC News,
4 July 2026
That potent symbolism has been evident in the black funeral flags hanging over city streets since his death referencing the seventh-century martyrdom of Shi'ism's third imam, Hossein.
—
Parisa Hafezi,
USA Today,
3 July 2026
Its colors reference both Pan-African symbolism and New Orleans, whose influence helped shape Kansas City’s jazz scene.
—
J.m. Banks,
Kansas City Star,
30 June 2026
But Lincoln understood the Capitol’s symbolism – and what the sight of its construction might communicate.
—
Allison M. Prasch,
The Conversation,
29 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for symbolism
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ABC News,
4 July 2026
That potent symbolism has been evident in the black funeral flags hanging over city streets since his death referencing the seventh-century martyrdom of Shi'ism's third imam, Hossein.
—
Parisa Hafezi,
USA Today,
3 July 2026
Its colors reference both Pan-African symbolism and New Orleans, whose influence helped shape Kansas City’s jazz scene.
—
J.m. Banks,
Kansas City Star,
30 June 2026
But Lincoln understood the Capitol’s symbolism – and what the sight of its construction might communicate.
—
Allison M. Prasch,
The Conversation,
29 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for symbolism
Cite this Entry
“Symbolism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/symbolism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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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