Signs and Symbols are pictorial in nature and are graphical representations of an object, function or process used to convey information or instructions. Signs and Symbols are often used interchangeably. A Sign is a form of language and is specifically meant to communicate information. The meaning of a sign is universally shared. Symbol is a form of sign that is accepted by certain group or general population. Symbols can be interpreted differently by different groups of people. The primary difference between Sign and Symbols is: Sign is a language used to communicate, and is not subjective. Symbol is subjective in nature and often requires explanation. This article provides information about some important Signs and Symbols and their description.

Primary Difference: A Symbol can convey a deeper and more complex meaning than a sign. A Sign . is an indicator or marker for something very specific, very concrete and, in general, unambiguous in meaning.
Example: Road markers are called signs because they usually convey something very specific - the speed limit, "Stop", one-way, etc. Signs are not open to interpretation with these markers. Signs are universally accepted communication tools.
A Symbol, such as a cross, a dove, a ring, etc. can have intense meanings and interpretations that differ from one person to another depending on their location, experience, culture, upbringing, etc. A symbol conveys a message of deeper meaning and is open to interpretation. A picture containing a dove could be meant to convey a message about peace, or it could be a picture of a bird indicating freedom, & strength & speed. "$" is to be called a dollar sign, though dollar symbol is also commonly used. However it is not a dollar symbol, because $ has a concrete meaning. It represents a unit of currency, very specifically the unit of currency known as the dollar. In a nut shell, a "sign" is a unit of communication that represents something specific, while a "symbol" is a unit of communication imbued with deeper and intense meaning open for interpretations.

List of important Signs and Symbols and their Meaning

Interesting Facts - Signs and Symbols
1. The dove and olive branch are used as a symbol of peace originated with the early Christians, they described the act of baptism accompanied by a dove holding an olive branch in its beak and also used the image on their sepulchers.
2. The Internationally recognized protective sign of truce or ceasefire is known as The White Flag, and request for negotiation. The flag is used to surrender is included in the Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907.
3. The national flag of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is called as the Union Jack or Union Flag. The flag combines with of three older national flags they are,the red saltire of St Patrick to represent Ireland, the red cross of St George of the Kingdom of England and the white saltire of St Andrew for Scotland (which two were united in the first Union Flag).
4. The United States flag consists of thirteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white, with a blue rectangle in the canton (referred to specifically as the “union”) bearing fifty small, white, five-pointed stars arranged in nine offset horizontal rows, where rows of six stars (top and bottom) alternate with rows of five stars. The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 states of the United States of America.