Definition

Noun: 1. The act or process of representing something by a symbol, or of investing things with symbolic meaning. This refers to the practice of using symbols to stand for ideas, qualities, or other abstract concepts. 2. A symbol itself; something visible that, by association or convention, represents something else that is invisible or abstract. In this sense, it is the concrete object or sign that carries a symbolic meaning. 3. The use of symbols to convey meaning, especially in art, literature, or psychology. This describes the systematic employment of symbolism as a method of communication or expression.

Usage Examples

• As the act of representing symbolically (Definition 1):
  • The symbolisation of peace through a dove is common in many cultures.
  • The poet's symbolisation of time as a flowing river is central to the poem's theme.
• As the symbol itself (Definition 2):
  • In her dream, the locked door was a symbolisation of her hidden fears.
  • The ring served as a powerful symbolisation of their eternal bond.
• As the use of symbols (Definition 3):
  • The film is noted for its heavy symbolisation, where every object seems to have a deeper meaning.
  • Dream analysis often involves the interpretation of symbolisation.

Advanced Usage

• In Psychology (Psychoanalysis): Refers specifically to the process by which unconscious thoughts or desires are represented in a disguised form, often in dreams or symptoms.
  • Freud discussed the symbolisation of repressed wishes in dream content.
• In Semiotics: The study of signs and symbols, where symbolisation is a key process for creating meaning.
  • The semiotician examined the symbolisation process in advertising imagery.

Variants and Related Words

• Symbolize (verb): To be a symbol of; to represent by means of a symbol.
  • The olive branch symbolizes peace.
• Symbolic (adjective): Serving as a symbol; characterized by or involving the use of symbols.
  • The ceremony was purely symbolic.
• Symbolism (noun): The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities; a system of symbols.
  • The novel is rich in religious symbolism.

Synonyms

• Symbolization (American English spelling)
• Representation
• Emblemization
• Figuration

Notes on Different Meanings

The three core definitions are closely related but emphasize different aspects: 1. The Process: Focuses on the act of making something symbolic. 2. The Object: Focuses on the result or the symbol itself. 3. The Practice/Method: Focuses on the technique or systematic use of symbols.

The meaning is often clear from context, whether discussing an artist's method (practice), a specific symbol in a story (object), or the conceptual act behind it (process).

Noun

1. the practice of investing things with symbolic meaning
2. something visible that by association or convention represents something else that is invisible
   • the eagle is a symbol of the United States
3. the use of symbols to convey meaning