12 Symbols That Changed Meaning Over Time
Symbols don’t stay fixed forever; what once meant one thing can later represent something entirely different.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Cultures have used symbols to communicate beliefs. However, as societies evolve, the meanings behind these symbols can shift. Here are 12 symbols whose significance transformed over time. Often in surprising ways.
1. 1. The Swastika
Cormaggio on Wikimedia Comons
Once a symbol of peace and good fortune in ancient cultures, the swastika appeared in Hindu, Buddhist, and Native American traditions. Its reputation changed forever when Nazi Germany adopted it in the 20th century. Today, its earlier positive meaning is overshadowed by its dark association with fascism.
2. 2. The Cross
Greg Rosenke on Unsplash
Long before Christianity, the cross appeared in pagan rituals as a symbol of life and the four directions. After the crucifixion of Jesus, it became the defining emblem of Christianity. Its transformation marked one of the most powerful rebrandings in history.
3. 3. The Skull and Crossbones
RootOfAllLight on Wikimedia Commons
Originally a Christian symbol of mortality, reminding people of life’s fragility, the skull and crossbones took on a fearsome new role. Pirates used it to strike terror on the high seas. Now, it’s most commonly found on warning labels for poison.
4. 4. The Rainbow
Stainless Images on Unsplash
In the Bible, the rainbow symbolized God’s promise to never flood the Earth again. In modern times, it has become a global emblem of LGBTQ+ pride and diversity. Its meaning shifted from divine covenant to human expression of identity.
5. 5. The Owl
Bruno van der Kraan on Unsplash
The ancient Greeks revered the owl as a symbol of wisdom associated with Athena. In medieval Europe, however, it was seen as a harbinger of death and ill fortune. Today, it has mostly reclaimed its wise image, often found in education logos.
6. 6. The Pentagram
KovacsUr on Wikimedia Commons
Early civilizations used the pentagram as a protective symbol against evil. Later, Christianity adopted it as a sign of Christ’s five wounds. In modern times, it’s often linked to witchcraft and the occult, showing how drastically meanings can flip.
7. 7. The Peace Sign
Stoica Ionela on Unsplash
Created in the 1950s for the nuclear disarmament movement, it quickly became a broader symbol of peace and protest. Some groups misinterpreted it as anti-Christian or even satanic. Despite this, it remains a global icon of nonviolence.
8. 8. The Heart Shape
Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
The familiar heart symbol didn’t always represent love. In medieval times, it sometimes referred to plants or even the human stomach. Over centuries, it evolved into the universal shorthand for romance and affection.
9. 9. The Crescent Moon
Dcubillas on Wikimedia Commons
In ancient Mesopotamia, the crescent moon represented lunar gods and cycles of fertility. Later, it became strongly associated with Islam, appearing on flags and mosques worldwide. Its modern meaning is now tied more to religion than astronomy.
10. 10. The Ankh
Alexi Helligar on Wikimedia Commons
The ankh began in ancient Egypt as a hieroglyph meaning “life.” It was adopted by early Christians in Egypt as a cross-like symbol. Today, it often appears as a fashion statement or spiritual emblem beyond its original context.
11. 11. The Snake
Mohamed Hassan on PxHere
Snakes once symbolized healing and rebirth, especially in Greek medicine with the staff of Asclepius. In Christianity, however, the serpent became linked to temptation and evil in the story of Adam and Eve. The dual meanings still coexist today.
12. 12. The Star of David
RachelMcDowell20 on Wikimedia Commons
This six-pointed star was once just a decorative pattern when it came to various cultures. Over time, it became the defining symbol of Judaism and Jewish identity. Its meaning shifted from simple design to sacred emblem.