symbolisation
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Symbolization (American English spelling)
- Representation
- Emblemization
- Figuration
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).
- the practice of investing things with symbolic meaning
- something visible that by association or convention represents something else that is invisible
- the eagle is a symbol of the United States
- the use of symbols to convey meaning