A simple picture that represents an object or idea by looking like the real thing, such as a knife-and-fork sign for a restaurant. It communicates at a glance without words.
Synonyms
- pictograph
- picture symbol
Related terms
In plain words
- a picture that means something without words
- those little signs at airports
Usage example
Airport wayfinding relies on pictograms so travellers can understand signs in any language.
Don't confuse with…
- ideogramA pictogram looks like the thing it names; an ideogram represents an abstract idea that has no obvious picture.
Categories
- Iconography