Symbol

==Role of context in symbolism==
{{Original research|section|date=January 2010}}
A symbol's [[Meaning (non-linguistic)|meaning]] may be modified by various factors including popular usage, [[history]], and contextual [[intent (law)|intent]].

===Historical meaning===
The history of a symbol is one of many factors in determining a particular symbol's apparent meaning. Consequently, symbols with emotive power carry problems analogous to [[false etymologies]].<ref>
Compare:
{{cite book
 | last1 = Basso
 | first1 = Michele
 | title = Eschatological symbolism in the Vatican Necropolis
 | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=-qovAQAAIAAJ
 | publisher = Tipografia Poliglotta Vaticana
 | date = 1982
 | page = 700
 | access-date = 2019-01-05
 | quote = In a late period the Greeks made [Pan] the incarnation of All (giving a false etymology to his name, which is really connected with the pastures), that is to say, the universe. 
}}
</ref>

===Context===
The context of a symbol may change its meaning.  Similar five-pointed stars might signify a [[Law enforcement agency|law enforcement]] officer or a member of the [[armed services]], depending upon the [[uniform]].