31 Happy Symbolism of Happiness & Joy With Meanings

Happy symbolism can be found in many cultures around the world. From bats to bluebirds, every culture has a special animal to represent joy. Regardless of culture, these animals all share positive associations, and that is one of the reasons they are considered to be near-universal symbols. Read on to discover more about happy symbolism.

Happiness symbolism plays a big part in human communication as people continuously search for deeper meaning and happiness in life.

Whether it is in the newest visual content, stars, or drawn on a cave wall, people add such meaning to their communication through the use and interpretation of signs.

Symbolic meanings of happiness and what they mean

How is happiness reflected? Is it true happiness? How can you improve your self-esteem? Happiness plays an integral role in the way people communicate. In newest visuals or in stars drawn from cave walls people can use and interpret symbols to communicate with each other. If humans are trying to find such meaning through everything they encounter, they will see something that isn’t the meaning they are seeking to express itself.

Some symbols of happiness have become so ingrained with the cultural sphere that they bring a nearly a near universal symbol meaning.

Meanings are assigned to different symbols and colors at an individual , cultural and international level.

Symbols of happiness

Symbols of happiness have varied across cultures. A smile is one of the most common symbols, but its meaning may not be the same as another culture’s. Nevertheless, the act of smiling has a profound psychological effect on people. The bluebird is another universal symbol of happiness, with meanings that range from knowledge to hope. The chirping of bluebirds has long been associated with happiness. Its popularity has influenced many cultures and is still one of the most common ways to express happiness.

Having a pet is another common way to experience happiness. Whether it is a dog, cat, or bird, pets help people feel better. They don’t judge and won’t tell others about their lives, making them an extremely powerful symbol of happiness. Pets are always happy to see their owners and make them feel better.

In Native American cultures, the bluebird is a universal symbol of happiness. In Russia, it represents hope, while in China, the bluebird represents knowledge and happiness. The bluebird is also associated with the sun. In Native American mythology, it is a harbinger of spring. In addition to being a messenger of the sun, the bluebird fights off winter’s evil demigod.

Another universal symbol of happiness is the smile. It symbolizes happiness in all cultures, and is often associated with positive energy. Throughout the centuries, people from various cultures have incorporated smiles into their lives.

Symbols of merriment

There are a variety of symbols associated with happiness. Traditionally, the sun is a happy symbol. But today, different cultures have different interpretations of what it means to be happy. Some cultures associate happiness with animals like cats, dogs, and bats, while others associate it with negative connotations. There are also different meanings associated with flowers and plants.

The dragonfly, a symbol of change and transformation, is often associated with happiness. It is also associated with the unconscious part of the soul, and is often found near water bodies. This symbolism suggests a willingness to explore your emotions in a light and happy way. A smile is also a universal symbol of happiness.

Another happy symbol is the bluebird. This colorful bird is associated with happiness in various cultures, from Native American cultures to Russian cultures. It represents hope in Chinese mythology, and is associated with the sun in many Native American cultures. It is also associated with knowledge and hope in China and Russia. Its yellow feathers represent happiness.

The laughing Buddha is another symbol associated with happiness. There are many variations of the laughing Buddha. It can be depicted in many postures, and is often carried in a sack. In other cultures, the laughing Buddha is associated with a worry-free life, and is often depicted on Chinese New Year decorations.

Symbols of thyrsus

Thyrsus is a Greek god of happiness and sexuality. His phallic symbol is a staff topped with a pine cone. He is associated with Dionysus, Bacchus, and the Satyrs, gods of fertility and hedonistic pleasure. In the ancient world, he was associated with fruitfulness, sexuality, and fertility. As such, he is a fitting symbol for the pursuit of happiness and ecstatic sexual abandonment.

Thyrsus is also found in Goethe’s Faust, where the main character tries to catch a lambia and ends up holding the thyrsus instead. It is also mentioned in Ovid’s Metamorphoses Book III, and in a poem by Robert Browning. You can find the thyrsi on tattoos and in wine stores.

Several ancient cultures associated thyrsus with the pinecone. Ancient Greeks and Assyrians believed the pinecone symbolized fertility, immortality, and feminine purity. The pinecone is also associated with the Tree of Life. It also symbolizes faith, fertility, and equity, and is associated with a virtuous person.

The thyrsi were also used by Maenads, female followers of Dionysus. The Maenads carried thyrsi as weapons. Some paintings depict Maenads pointing thyrsi at satyrs, the drunken woodland nymphs.

Symbols of bluebird

The bluebird is considered a happy symbol and its appearance can give you a signal that things are changing for the better. However, don’t be too hasty with your expectations. You don’t want to get stuck in the middle of a downturn. Rather, take your time, enjoy your life, and think positive.

The bluebird is known to represent happiness and prosperity. It has the ability to turn your dreams into reality. This makes it a powerful animal for those who are looking for a relationship. This animal is known to be romantic, but it can also indicate monogamy or a protective nature. It can also be a spiritual guide, bringing you closer to the higher realms.

Bluebirds are considered holy messengers in Native American culture. They are believed to be messengers of the universe, and they often appear when a person needs guidance. In addition, bluebirds are said to bring messages from departed loved ones, and so they are a symbol of happiness and good luck.

Among the many meanings associated with the bluebird, a number of biblical stories refer to the bluebird as a messenger from the spiritual realm. As such, it is important to pay attention to these stories to find out more about the bluebird. The bluebird’s sweet voice, which carries the messages of the angels, is a sign of attention. This bird’s song is also a sign of the spirits that will guide us and help us make wise decisions.

Native Americans, the bird is associated with the sun and believed to be an embodiment of dawn – a perfect symbol of optimism, joy, and hope.

According to folklore, many Native Americans hung dry gourds to entice bluebirds to nest near their settlements so they can enjoy their enchanting songs of happiness and hope.

The bluebird is a symbol of happiness in many cultures around the world, including in Russia, where it represents hope, and in China’s Shang Dynasty, where it’s a messenger of knowledge and enlightenment.

Symbols of magpie

Depending on the culture, magpies can be either happy or sad symbols. Some cultures use magpies as a symbol of deceit or fraud. Others use them as a sign of good luck and prosperity. While magpies are not particularly colorful, they do have a lot of spirit and wisdom, which can be very helpful in our lives.

Whether you’re looking for happy symbolism in love, luck, or wealth, magpies have a powerful role to play in your life. They can help you balance your material needs with your spiritual needs, and draw attention to your soul. The magpie is also helpful in helping you communicate your innermost feelings. If you’ve been afraid to express your feelings, or have trouble saying what you mean, the magpie can help you express what’s in your heart.

The magpie is an ingenious bird with strong determination. It enjoys being outdoors and exploring new places. It is also a fun, sociable creature. Even though it can be aggressive if it’s revengeful, magpies rarely hurt others without being provoked.

Magpies are also considered lucky signs, and can boost your success at work. Symbols of magpies for happiness can be used in creative ways to inspire happiness and success. For example, you can use magpie images as computer wallpaper or screensavers.

Symbols of starling

In dreams, a starling can indicate a number of different things. It could indicate an argument with a friend or coworker, or it could signify disagreement with someone who’s important to you. Regardless of the cause, starling dreams can help you realize how difficult it can be to share your feelings with others. In addition, they can help you realize the value of a loved one.

Starlings are also known to represent groups. They flock together in large groups, and often fight for food. This makes them an incredibly powerful symbol of fighting for one’s life. As such, they teach lessons on social justice and fairness. Despite their noisy and unorthodox behavior, starlings have a unique ability to teach us lessons about how to live in a community.

A starling’s color is a reflection of their attitude towards life. While they’re not known for being incredibly happy, they are also associated with being prosperous and content. As a result, starlings can also indicate that you’re on the right track in your life. They’ll assist you in overcoming any obstacles that come your way. A starling flying into your home could indicate a connection with someone new or a shift in direction.

Seeing a starling can also represent a warning that you need to develop a community of trusted friends. A group of trusted friends can help you achieve your full potential. Without a community of peers, you won’t be able to reach your divine destiny. This kind of unity will also allow you to take advantage of the skills and abilities of others and become the best version of yourself.

Smile (universal)

One of the most recognized symbols of happyness is smiling. Smiling can actually have positive psychological effects with others believing your behaviour is less intimidating and likable. There can be varying ways of viewing a smiling face across different cultures. Generally speaking, people who smile so often at other individuals can feel irritated by the situation or feel suppressed anger. In certain European countries like France or Russia, people who smile at strangers have a reputation as suspect, lack of knowledge or American.

Two Golden Fish (Buddhism)

A pair of goldfish are Ashtamangalas (sacred attributes) and each one represents the main holy rivers Ganges and Yamuna Nadi in Dharmic tradition. Their symbols have traditionally a significance for freedom and happy life, and are the two pillars of Buddhist teachings: peace and harmony. The theory behind the fish’ability to swim is that there can be hardly anything to worry about. Similar people should move through the world of despair and deception with calm minds free of fear.

Shtreimel (Hassidism)

It’s the “streimel”, a type of fur coat that most Jews wear particularly among the shiahs, and is also deemed symbolic in the Jewish tradition. Hasianism or Chassidisme is an Israeli Jewish movement that emerged during the early 18th century. One essential part of hasidic culture is to feel joyous. According to many people, happiness is a great gift from God than depression and sadness. According to the founder of the movement happy people are seen as biblically commanded mitzvahs.

Dharma Chakra (Buddhism)

The Dharma Chakra is portrayed by many Buddhist faiths and has been considered sacred to many. In Buddhist practice this is the Noble Eightfold Path — practices which lead people towards true liberated happiness known as Nirvana. In sanity Buddhism has devoted itself to defining happiness. This can only be accomplished through the elimination of the craving of any form, which can also be achieved through practice on the Eightfold Way of Life.

Coca plant (Inca)

A Andanian goddess relating to happiness and health and recreational drug-taking, Cochamama was a symbol of Coca plant. According to Inca mythology Cocamama was initially a flirtatious woman who became cut down by jealous lovers thereby becoming the first coka plant of all time. (33) In Incan society the plant was frequently chewed as a recreational mild narcotic and is used also by the priest as an offering of rituals called K’intestus.

Lily of the Valley (Great Britain)

A May Lily, this spring flower, is a symbol of happiness and was among the favourite flowers of Victoria and many other royals. In English folklore there are legends that when Saint Leonard’s king was successful at taking out his dragon opponent these flowers bloomed to commemorate his victory in every part of his blood was drenched. It was formerly used as a protector charm and many believed it could repel evil spirits at some stage.

May lily, this springtime flower since Victorian times in Great Britain has come to symbolize happiness, with it having been among the most favorite plants of Queen Victoria as well as many other royals.

Biwa Japan

Benten is a deity from Shichi-fuku-jain — 7 Japanese deities whose symbolism represents good fortune and happiness. (30) Individually she is the god of the flow of life; it includes time, words, wisdom and musical instruments. She is actually a foreign-based religion which comes in the name Saraswati goddess. In many movies Benten holds a musical instrument similar to the Hindu counterpart Biwas, a form of Japanese lute.

Gye W’ani (West Africa)

The Akans use the Adnanakra as the symbol used when conveying various abstract ideas and concepts. The symbol of Adincra is ubiquitous throughout Western Africa in clothing, architecture and monuments. The Adinekra symbols are the gyewani which means enjoy yourself, be happy and live your life. Adinkra symbols are patterned on chess pieces of the Queen, likely because queens live in the absence of worries.

Why are symbols important in graphic design?

Symbolism is a very important element of human communication. Through our use of sign language, we add this meaning into our communication. Because we look for meaning in everything we have around us, all things can be considered as symbols, as long as they are used in a different form of expression. Nevertheless, certain symbols have a very ingrained culture that is able to have almost universal meaning.

Shuangxi (China)

Shuangxi is a Chinese calligraphy symbol meaning double happy. Often it can be used as good luck charm used in traditional decoration, mainly at marriage ceremonies and weddings as well. This symbol contains two compressed versions of Chinese characters (joy). Its typical colours are red or gold — the first expressing happiness, beauty, luck and the other symbolizing wealth and noblest status.

Dragonfly (Native Americans)

Among the indigenous tribes in the New World, the dragon fly represented happiness, speed, purity, and transformation. It’s not unsurprising how much symbolism is used in the dragonfly; it spent much time in the sea and eventually became fully airborne. It was interpreted as an emotionally mature and losing control over negative emotions and thinking which had confined them.

Rose (Greco-Roman Civilization)

The rose represents aphrodite Venus, the Greco-Roman goddess of love, beauty, and even passion and wealth. Her cult is probably Phoenician, and is related to a cult of Astarte, which is an import from Sumer that originates from the cult of Ishtar-Inanna. The god played an essential role in Roman mythology as ancestor of everyone Roman by her son Aeneas.

Ship’s Rudder (Ancient Rome)

In Roman times a ship rudder was often depicted beside Laetitia goddesses of happiness. It was not an accident. Those who lived in Europe believed in Roman empires’ happiness that they could influence and direct the way events would take place. Alternately the rudder could be used to illustrate the dependence on grain imported in the south of Egypt.

Sunflowers (West)

The flower has grown quickly in Atlantic popularity from discovery by Europeans to a very small size. It is associated with many positive attributes, like love. Apparently the flowers’ similarities to sunlight might be the cause. Sunflowers are often presented and decorated at fun and festive events such as wedding showers, birthday parties etc.

In Chinese culture, these flowers are known to represent lasting happiness and good luck.

Full Moon (Romans)

It’s believed the full moon symbolizes Anna Perenna the goddess of the Roman New Year, the Roman goddess of renewal. The festival began on March 15th (March Id) and lasted until April 15th. The public and private sacrifice will be given to this new year’s health and happiness.

Kartika (Buddhism)

The Kartikas are a kind of small flaying blade with a crescent-shape which is commonly used in tantric ceremonies in Vajrayani Buddhism. It is also a widely used symbol for the wrathful tantric deities including the protector goddess of the most hidden mantra.

Wunjo (Norse)

Runes were symbols for writing Germanic languages until Latin Alphabet came into existence. Runises have been much more besides sounds or letters but represent some cosmological ideas and principles. Wunjo signifies joy, happiness and a close relationship.

Buddhist flag (Buddhism)

The flag of Buddhist belief was invented at the start of the nineteenth century as a symbol of religious freedom. Lastly, the sixth vertical band crafted from these combinations reflects the Truth of Buddha teaching.

Tell me the symbol of happiness that makes people happy?

In my opinion universal smiles bring happiness. They have a common location which makes all people happy as well. But that may not mean we will remain comfortable. We can use physical objects as a symbol for our happiness.

Contents show List of things that Symbolize Happiness

1 Dragonfly

Like the bat, the dragonfly is another symbol of happiness in Chinese culture and is used in Feng Shui to attract positive influences including happiness, success, peace, and harmony.

2 Doves

Doves are associated with peace, quiet, and grace. Its importance is universal so many religious movements around the world use this symbol in their worship as truest representations of peace, grace, and divine nature. In the past it was synonymous with peace and ending war. It is evident in its use as an anti-violence campaign emblem and Olympic games in the past as an important instrument in promoting international collaboration and peace. The symbol can be used to convey a calm and peaceful feeling.

3 Butterfly

In mythology and art butterflies are viewed in every culture and world as a symbol of transformation as they transform from a wormy caterpillar into an amazing insect with brightly painted wings. It is commonly used in some cultural traditions as the symbol for the soul and can be used in stories and myths in the hope of bringing home a person who died. The flowering butterfly that rose had on her hairpiece was also shown in “Titanic”.

4 Crossroads

Crosses are linked throughout the world in terms of Christianity, spirituality, forgiveness, resurrection, and healing. In a specific sense this is Christ’s victory over sin and death. The red cross is often used to represent medical and humanitarian aid workers in conflict zones and during disasters. A separate organization uses them to designate first aid and medical equipment.

5 Water

The water represents life and is essential to human life. Therefore water symbol was often common across the centuries and represented birth, fertility, and refreshment. In fact water is sometimes regarded as the origin of living, as evidence from numerous creation myths whose existence arises from primordial water. Water cleans canvas the same way water cleans with dirt. Often it also represents obstacles like rivers and oceans which need to pass. In either scenario, water can represent sway in graphic story, claiming and freeing people as well.

6 Owls

In the past the owl has been used for symbols in almost every fashion: From apparel and accessories to interiors and home design. The popularity of this emblem is not a recent phenomenon. Its history is also because owls have always carried Athena the Goddess of Learning. The owls are regarded in Native American culture as the creatures of the night, and associated with the supernatural as well as death. Because they are usually nocturnal Owls are often portrayed as a strange – sometimes magical creature which dwells or emerges from dark places.

7 Roses

What is love without red roses? The concept of representation is mainly utilised in cinema arts & literature. It is nothing like an individual rose. It’s no surprise. Romans considered the floral a symbol of their loving Goddess Venus and Greeks connected it to the goddess of love, Aphrodite. Roses are sometimes meant to indicate various things according to the context. In Catholic circles rose symbolizes the virgin Mary and Rosary. The emblem of England is the emblem of Britain during the Wars of Roses.

8 Fire

Fire has been considered a crucial component of civilization in human history. Often the flame is used for symbolizing a multitude of different meanings – a flame can indicate knowledge. This association may have traces from earliest times. Before humans discovered how they would harness this force the fire was able to quickly destroy settlements. So fire caused fear. Today, drought-stricken areas have burned out because of blazes that can’t be properly contained. Currently there is conflict in western Europe.

9 Arrows

Symbols like a bow and arrow can invoke Robin Hood’s merry spirit, but they are equally ubiquitous in today’s world. Think about your cursor on your laptop screen or your arrows that appear on websites to draw attention to some things. They are found on highways and serve as guides for you. In Logos, arrows usually indicate progress, ambition, or direction. Arrow symbols are even used to symbolise things which we don’t know until we are conscious. Check out Fedex’s famous emblem. Hidden in the white spaces of E and X a pointed arrow points towards the right.

10 Flags

Flags have various meanings varying by context symbol and color. In some respects, rainbow flags were traditionally associated with the gays. The national flag has been used to create pride and patriotism among citizens. The colors that make up the banners represent many different ideas, therefore, some countries designed their flags using colors in mind. In some instances, red is a symbol of blood loss, courage, and revolutionary movements, whereas the white represents nonviolence and harmony. Blue, meanwhile, symbolizes freedom and yellow represents wealth, green represents agricultural life and fertility.

11 Rain/Storm

Rain can have emotional or depressive effects. Why is there such poor weather? Often this can cause dread, loneliness and pessimism. Describe the role rain plays during Dickens’ The Tale of Two Cities. Whenever events occur they are storms. The rain informs the reader of danger. But although rain often indicates sadness and melancholy, its symbolic potential isn’t limited. Rain is used to create fears or represent crying. Rain is an important symbol of purification removing dirt and destruction. In some cases, they can symbolize cleansing human souls.

12 Peace sign

While various Peace Signs such as doves or olive branches were used across cultures across context, today the “peace sign” was developed as an emblem for the British Campaign for Nuclear Dearmament during the 1950s. A combination of semaphores in the letters “N” and “D,” corresponding to nuclear disarmament, the symbol became used by various antiwar groups in various countries. While the symbol brings immediately back to mind a hippie movement of the 60s, the symbol was rediscovered as the symbol of a new anti-nuclear movement.

13 Occult symbols

The occult means unidentified or unhidden; all things transcending human reason. Some religions including Neopagan, Wicca, and Christianity view occultism as fundamental. Ocult symbolisms include those in witchcraft and sataninism to Kabbalah and other religious beliefs and many more. In ceremonies and rituals, the commonly recognized symbol is an inverted pentagram anth.

14 Hearts

A popular symbol is a heart. While it still meant “love,” it may have far subtler meanings, as it contains many variations derived over time. Several early versions of symbols were more realistic and round, while the more recent representation is simplified representation of pictorial forms. The most famous uses of a heart symbol are found in a 13th-century miniature depicting a suitor delivering his heart to his wife. Heart symbols are also used as part of coats of arms. It can symbolize many aspects that we all associate with hearts today, such as love, valor, loyalty and kindness.

15 colors

Like symbols color has a different meaning according to its context. Blue can represent a mix of different emotions at times, such as calmness or melancholic feelings. Another colour is Red. Although sometimes used to signal danger it is commonly associated with love. Color symbols can be varied because symbols or colours have different significances in different cultures and countries. Marketing professionals can learn to use color symbols in the context and understand the contexts they are dealing with.

16 Skulls

Often when we see skull symbols there is one thing that lingers with our memory: warning labels on poisonous materials – pirate ships, Halloween, death, and deaths. In reality skulls are the bones that can be seen within a human body, but often create emotions that are dreadful and dreaded. When we see skulls, we know the owner is dead. Graphic designs displaying two bones crossing under human skulls symbolise death from the middle age. The emblem has been carved into some of the early tombstone inscriptions in Boston and elsewhere in New England – skulls are also primary symbols for the Mexican holiday of the death. Similarly to other symbols, context plays an important role.

17 Crescent

A crescent also symbolizes the major world religions. However the lunar crescent was used as a symbol for many centuries by some Muslims. The symbol is believed to have been used by the ancient civilization from the Eastern Mediterranean and Siberia when they worshiped sky god and moon. Because this is literally a representation of a second lunar stage, crescent also called the sickle represents the moon’s astrologic symbol. As crescent moons signifies growth and expansion, it is usually used symbolizing new beginnings and the turning of dreams into reality.

18 stars

A classic symbol with numerous applications, stars can have different meanings based both upon their context and number of points. Because stars represent the most distant places in the universe visible with our naked eyes, they may also represent emotional and physical distance as the journey. Before the development of science and knowledge which enabled human understanding of the nature of the universe and our celestial bodies, stars were thought of as symbols of the struggle between light and darkness, between spiritual and material. Stars can also be referred to as magic.