Romantic Symbols and What They Mean: Hearts, Roses, Rings and Lovespoons
The stories behind common symbols of love, from the heart shape and red rose to the Claddagh ring and Welsh lovespoon.
Symbols save us words. A rose or a ring can say "I love you" without a sentence. Here is where some of the best-known symbols come from.
The heart shape
The symmetrical heart shape does not look like a real heart. Its exact origin is debated, but by the later Middle Ages it was associated with love in European art. It is now an instantly recognised symbol of affection.
The red rose
The rose has long been linked with love and beauty. In Greek and Roman myth, roses were associated with Aphrodite and Venus, goddesses of love. Red roses came to stand for deep romantic love, while other colours carry other messages:
| Colour | Common meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | romantic love |
| Pink | admiration, gratitude |
| White | purity, new beginnings |
| Yellow | friendship |
Meanings vary between cultures, so treat these as loose guides.
The ring
A ring is a circle with no beginning or end, which is why it is often used as a symbol of commitment. Engagement and wedding rings are traditions in many cultures.
The Claddagh ring
The Claddagh ring comes from Ireland, and is named after the Claddagh area of Galway. Its design shows two hands holding a heart topped with a crown. The three parts are often said to stand for friendship (the hands), love (the heart) and loyalty (the crown).
The Welsh lovespoon
A lovespoon is a carved wooden spoon traditionally given as a token of affection in Wales. Carvers add symbols such as hearts for love and chains for togetherness. Lovespoons remain popular as gifts.
Love knots and doves
- Love knots, interlaced loops with no end, symbolise everlasting connection.
- Doves are associated with peace and, in pairs, with faithful partnership.
Symbols in messages
Symbols also appear in the everyday language of messages, such as the heart emoji. A small symbol can add warmth to a message, especially when the words are short.
Making your own symbol
Personal symbols are often the most meaningful:
- A shared song or place.
- A joke only you two understand.
- A small object you keep.
A lighthearted app such as True Love Calculator, made purely for fun, can be one more playful ritual for you and a friend or partner.
Tips
- Learn the story behind a symbol.
- Remember meanings vary by culture.
- Create your own.
True Love Calculator
A fun love percentage calculator, plus love quotes to send
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