Semiotics vs. Symbolism — What's the Difference?

Semiotics (also called semiotic studies) is the study of sign processes (semiosis), which are any activity, conduct, or process that involves signs, where a sign is defined as anything that communicates a meaning that is not the sign itself to the sign's interpreter. The meaning can be intentional such as a word uttered with a specific meaning, or unintentional, such as a symptom being a sign of a particular medical condition.

The practice of representing things by means of symbols or of attributing symbolic meanings or significance to objects, events, or relationships.

The theory and study of signs and symbols, especially as elements of language or other systems of communication, and comprising semantics, syntactics, and pragmatics.

A system of symbols or representations.

The study of signs and symbols, especially as means of language or communication.

A symbolic meaning or representation.

(dated) The study of medical signs and symptoms; symptomatology.

Revelation or suggestion of intangible conditions or truths by artistic invention.

Same as Semeiotics.

Symbolism The movement, theory, or practice of the late 19th-century Symbolists.

(philosophy) a philosophical theory of the functions of signs and symbols

Representation of a concept through symbols or underlying meanings of objects or qualities.

(obsolete) A combining together of parts or ingredients.

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.

A system of symbols or representations.

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

The science of creeds; symbolics.

A system of symbols and symbolic representations

The practice of investing things with symbolic meaning

An artistic movement in the late 19th century that tried to express abstract or mystical ideas through the symbolic use of images