Symbols transcended language barriers, allowing ideas to be communicated quickly and universally. From the red circle with a white line signaling “Do Not Enter” to the heart symbol for “like,” these icons have global understanding. 

Visual Language for the Illiterate

During the Dark Ages, with widespread illiteracy, rulers used symbols in art and public spaces to convey clear messages. Realism was counterproductive; detailed perspective could lead to misinterpretation. For example, a king depicted larger than a lion symbolized power, clearly communicating authority without ambiguity. As literacy improved, the need for such symbols diminished, and art shifted towards realism and detail.

Visual Language for Unilingualism

The 20th century brought a new challenge: globalization. With diverse languages and cultures intersecting, standardized symbols became crucial. This led to the creation of universally understood icons used in road signs, airports, and digital interfaces. Organizations like ISO now ensure these symbols maintain clear, consistent meanings worldwide.

Visual Language for Users

Today, symbols are integral to branding and UX design, where simplicity and clarity are key. For example, the hamburger menu icon (☰) is a widely recognized symbol for accessing hidden menus. These icons help users navigate technology intuitively, reducing cognitive load and enhancing usability.

Why This Matters

Symbols simplify communication and bridge cultural and linguistic gaps. They reduce cognitive load, enhance user experience, make interactions smoother and more accessible, ensuring that messages are clear at a glance.

Where This is Going

As technology evolves, so will the role of symbols. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) will push the boundaries of how symbols are used in design. Designers must also focus on accessibility, ensuring symbols are inclusive for all users. The clarity that make symbols effective for a general audience also make them essential for people with cognitive or visual impairments.

From medieval tapestries to modern UX design, symbols continue to offer a powerful means of communication. By understanding their origins, evolution, and current use, we can harness their full potential to create intuitive, accessible, and impactful designs that resonate with a global audience.