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iconography

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /aɪˈkɒnəɡrəfi/

KK: /aɪˈkɒnəɡrəfi/

noun
Definition

A collection of symbols or images that represent a particular subject or theme in art or literature.


Example

The museum's exhibit featured stunning iconography from ancient cultures.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever studied iconography in art history classes?
Sloth B
Yes, it’s fascinating to see how symbols convey deeper meanings.
Sloth A
I find it interesting how different cultures have unique iconography.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It really helps us understand their values and beliefs.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
imagery
symbolism
representation
Antonyms
abstraction
vagueness
ambiguity
Root Explanation

Iconography → It is formed from "icon" (from Greek "eikon", meaning image or likeness) and "-graphy" (from Greek "grapho", meaning to write or draw). The word refers to the visual representation or description of images, particularly in art and religious contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'icon' as an 'image' and '-graphy' as 'writing' or 'drawing' — this helps you remember that iconography is about the representation of images.

Visually Confused Words
ichnography
paniconography
chronography
ontography
oncography
monography
cynography
paniconograph
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