Definition of "symbolist" [sym•bol•ist]

• One who uses symbols or symbolism. (noun)
• One who interprets or represents conditions or truths by the use of symbols or symbolism. (noun)
• Any of a group of chiefly French writers and artists of the late 19th century who rejected realism and used symbols to evoke ideas and emotions. (noun)
• Of or relating to symbolism. (adjective)
• Of or relating to the Symbolists. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Symons did much to educate WBY in French symbolist literature."
• "(And there are those who think the latter would more aptly be called a "symbolist" rather than a realist.)"
• "And there are those who think the latter would more aptly be called a "symbolist" rather than a realist."