iconographic
/ˌaɪ.kə.nəˈɡræf.ɪk/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Relating to iconography: the study or use of images, symbols, and visual representations. It describes pictures, styles, or descriptions that depend on symbols or visual details.
- The article gives an iconographic analysis of the painting.
- Ancient coins often have iconographic details.
- Her presentation used iconographic evidence from temple art.
Adinary Nuance
Iconographic is more specific than symbolic or visual. Use it when you mean images and symbols that carry meaning, especially in art, religion, or history. A writer would choose iconographic for careful academic description, not for general praise of something that looks attractive.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- thuộc biểu tượng học
- Spanish
- iconográfico
- Chinese
- 图像的
- Japanese
- 図像学的な
- Korean
- 도상학의
Etymology
From Greek eikōn, meaning 'image', and -graphy, meaning 'writing' or 'description'. It came into English through academic writing in the 19th century.
Common phrases
iconographic analysisiconographic evidenceiconographic details
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is iconographic a common everyday word?
- No. It is mostly used in academic writing, especially about art, religion, and history.
- What is the difference between iconographic and symbolic?
- Symbolic is broader. Iconographic specifically refers to images, symbols, and visual representation.
- Can I use iconographic in business English?
- Usually not. It sounds scholarly and is better for academic or specialist writing.