Defn: that branch of historic theology which treats of creeds and confessions of faith; symbolism; — called also symbolic.
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.)
Defn: The science of creeds; symbolics.
SYMBOLIST
Sym"bol*ist, n.
Defn: One who employs symbols.
SYMBOLISTIC; SYMBOLISTICAL
Sym`bol*is"tic, Sym`bol*is"tic*al, a.