Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Symbolism \Sym"bol*ism\, n.
   1. 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.

   2. A system of symbols or representations.

   3. (Chem.)
      (a) The practice of using symbols, or the system of
          notation developed thereby.
      (b) A combining together of parts or ingredients. [Obs.]

   4. (Theol.) The science of creeds; symbolics.

Source : WordNet®

symbolism
     n 1: a system of symbols and symbolic representations
     2: the practice of investing things with symbolic meaning [syn:
         {symbolization}, {symbolisation}]
     3: an artistic movement in the late 19th century that tried to
        express abstract or mystical ideas through the symbolic
        use of images