Asymbolia

/ˌeɪsɪmˈboʊliə/ noun

Definition

A neurological condition in which someone loses the ability to understand or use symbols, like words or gestures.

Etymology

From Greek 'a-' (not) plus 'symbolon' (symbol), with the medical suffix '-ia' indicating a disease or condition.

Kelly Says

Asymbolia is so rare it's barely documented in medical literature, but when it does occur from brain damage, it reveals how much of our thinking depends on our ability to use symbols.

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