noun

symbolism

SIHM-buh-lih-zuhm

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

symbolisms plural

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The novel is rich with religious _____.

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

embolism metabolism alcoholism