Some of the origins and hidden meanings of everyday symbols are universal, while others unique to certain cultures. You see these symbols everywhere in your day-to-day life, and might not even recognize them as symbols of any sort! They show up wherever you go, and you are constantly in their presence.
Why are the origins and hidden meanings of everyday symbols important? What are symbols anyway?
The definition of a symbol is something that represents something else through association or resemblance. A symbol is basically a mark, sign, or word. It indicates, signifies, or represents an idea, object, or relationship. Symbols create linkages between otherwise very different concepts and experiences. We use symbols every day in our communication. Symbols take the form of words, sounds, gestures, ideas or visual images and are used to convey other ideas and beliefs.
The origins and hidden meanings of everyday symbols can be traced back thousands of years!
For example, the lightning bolt symbol. Cavemen and Neanderthals used to scratch this symbol in caves. They linked it to the Sky God and its punishment, and so its origin and meaning are clear – fire from the sky.
This list of the origins and hidden meanings of everyday symbols also includes the power symbol and the Bluetooth symbol. The apple command key (the Gorgon loop), the check mark, and the pause symbol. Also, the “ok” hand gesture symbol, the male symbol, and the female symbol. The skull and crossbones symbol, the ampersand symbol, the peace symbol, and the “v” hand gesture symbol. The yin-yang symbol, the recycling symbol, the “Jesus” fish, and the medical symbol.
If you know of the origins and hidden meanings of everyday symbols we forgot to mention in this video, please share in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this video, you may also like Life 100 Years Ago vs Life Now.