Icons

An icon is a symbol or image that stands for a person, object, action, or concept. The term derives from the Greek eikon, meaning image. Icons occur in many domains, and their meaning depends on context and tradition.

In religious contexts, especially within Eastern Orthodox and some Catholic traditions, icons are sacred images intended to facilitate contemplation and prayer. They follow established conventions in form and symbolism, underpinning an extensive iconographic program. Icons are typically painted on wood, using tempera and sometimes gold leaf, and are often displayed in churches on an iconostasis. The veneration of icons differs from worship of the depicted figures, emphasizing reverence for the sacred image as a window to the divine. Iconography also informs Western Christian art and the study of religious symbolism.

In computing and digital media, an icon is a small graphic that represents a program, file, function, or object. GUI icons aid quick recognition and navigation. Design principles emphasize clarity, consistency, scalable vector graphics, and accessibility. Icons are used in software interfaces, websites, and mobile apps, and may be accompanied by tooltips or labels.

Culturally, icons or icon figures refer to universally recognized symbols or persons who embody a cultural moment or identity, such as historic landmarks or brand marks. The term also covers branding icons and logo marks, which function as enduring identifiers.

Creation and preservation involve traditional craft, digital design, licensing, and ethical considerations, including respectful use of religious icons and intellectual property rights for modern icons.