The word 'symbology' is a modern English formation built from classical Greek components. Its first element, 'symbol,' originates from the Greek 'symbolon,' meaning a token, tally, or sign by which one infers a thing. This itself derives from 'symballein,' meaning 'to throw together,' suggesting the coming together of a sign and its intended meaning. The connecting vowel 'o' and the suffix '-logy,' from Greek '-logia' (a speaking, discourse, or branch of knowledge), were appended to create a term meaning 'the study or discourse of symbols.' Thus, the literal construction "the study of signs" logically evolved into its contemporary abstract meaning, referring both to the academic discipline concerned with symbols and to a specific system of symbols used in communication, art, or technology.

Structure: symbol + o + logy symbol: From Greek 'symbolon' (token, sign). The core element representing a sign that stands for something else. o: A connecting vowel, typically of Greek origin, used to join word elements. logy: From Greek '-logia' (denoting a subject of study or discourse). A suffix meaning "the study of" or "the science of."