Origin: Greek suffix -ism
Symbolism has 4 different meanings across 1 category:
a system of symbols and symbolic representations
"The museum curator explained that the entire exhibition was built on symbolism, where every object served as part of a complex system representing ancient myths."
the practice of investing things with symbolic meaning
"The artist's use of recurring blue kites in her work is a deliberate form of symbolism, where each kite represents freedom rather than just being a decorative element."
an artistic movement in the late 19th century that tried to express abstract or mystical ideas through the symbolic use of images
"The art historian explained how Symbolism emerged as a movement dedicated to conveying mystical concepts through dreamlike imagery rather than realistic depictions."
Representation of a concept through symbols or underlying meanings of objects or qualities.
"The artist's use of wilted flowers in the portrait was pure symbolism, representing the fleeting nature of youth without saying a word about it directly."