symbolism

n. movement in art and literature in the late 19th century that rejected realism and tried to express abstract or ideas through the use of symbolic images

n. expression of an idea by means of symbols (as in art, literature, etc.); system of symbols; symbolic meaning; (in Christianity) use of any specific special identification images or marks to signify a religious message or divine being (such as the bread and wine used in the Eucharist are symbols and not literally the flesh and blood of Jesus (in Christianity)

"Symbolic" redirects here. For other uses, see Symbolism (disambiguation) and Symbolic (disambiguation). Symbolism is the applied use of symbols: iconic representations that carry particular conventional meanings. Usually pictures.The term "symbolism" is often limited to use in contrast to "representationalism"; defining the general directions of a linear spectrum - where in all symbolic concepts can be viewed in relation, and where changes in context may imply systemic changes to individual and collective definitions of symbols. "Symbolism" may refer to a way of choosing representative symbols in line with abstract rather than literal properties, allowing for the broader interpretation of a carried meaning than more literal concept-representations allow. A religion can be described as a language of concepts related to human spirituality. Symbolism hence is an important aspect of most religions. However, not all use it, but most do at some point in time.
See more at Wikipedia.org...

Symbolism /sym·bol·ism/ 1. the act or process of representing something by a symbol. 2. in psychoanalytic theory, a mechanism of unconscious [more]Symbolism - Community and Resources

Noun
1. a system of symbols and symbolic representations
(hypernym) symbol
2. the practice of investing things with symbolic meaning
(synonym) symbolization, symbolisation
(hypernym) practice, pattern
3. an artistic movement in the late 19th century that tried to express abstract or mystical ideas through the symbolic use of images
(hypernym) artistic movement, art movement

(n.)
The science of creeds; symbolics.
  

(n.)
The practice of using symbols, or the system of notation developed thereby.
  

(n.)
The act of symbolizing, or the state of being symbolized; as, symbolism in Christian art is the representation of truth, virtues, vices, etc., by emblematic colors, signs, and forms.
  

(n.)
A system of symbols or representations.
  

(n.)
A combining together of parts or ingredients.