A symbol that stands for an idea or concept rather than picturing a specific object, like a heart for love or a red circle-and-slash for 'not allowed'. You have to learn its meaning; it does not simply look like a thing.
Synonyms
- ideograph
Related terms
In plain words
- a symbol for an idea, not an object
- a sign you have to learn the meaning of
Usage example
The heart is an ideogram for affection that people recognise across cultures.
Don't confuse with…
- pictogramAn ideogram represents an abstract idea; a pictogram literally depicts the object it refers to.
Categories
- Iconography