The Meaning of Shapes

If you're not interested in design or do not need to create a logo soon, chances are you don't know what they mean. It should be noted that geometric shapes have distinct meanings, which may, however, change depending on the context and values of your company. Let's get straight to the heart of the matter, starting with the meaning of the lines, and then we will see those of the shapes like the square, the circle, the triangle, etc.

The different meanings and psychology of defined lines in design

Horizontal lines

There are many logos with horizontal lines, but what exactly do they represent? A straight line, in general, represents determination and simplicity. What's more straightforward than a straight line, after all? A straight horizontal line inspires calm and serenity in general. On the other hand, in some cases, they can represent feeling of action, movement and speed. It all depends on the context.

Vertical lines

Vertical lines represent a particular notion of growth, going higher, and always improving. If you own a consulting business, school, or a company which inspires people’s growth, vertical lines can be a good symbol for your logo. An excellent example of this is the Adidas logo, whose vertical lines represent a mountain, a challenge to be met.

Curved lines

After straight lines, let's talk about curved lines. Curved lines can have both positive and negative connotations. You then have to be careful how you use them. The curved lines inspire femininity and fullness, but also softness and laxity.

Diagonal lines

Finally, let's talk about diagonal lines. They can inspire movement with their inclination in one direction or the other. And yes, the diagonal lines reflect a certain dynamism or a progression toward a goal.

The different meanings of geometrical shapes in logo design and art

What is the basic meaning of shapes? What do shapes refer to?

Let's now see what the meaning of the different shapes is. We will decipher the most used shapes when creating logos.

The meaning of the circle: what do circles represent?

Let us start with one of the most common shapes: cirtcles. Circles give an impression of infinity and completeness. They represent community or unity. Sometimes the circle can look like a badge, so it has a more traditional and authentic look. Curves and rounded shapes represent femininity and often have a more friendly appearance than squares or rectangles. Finally, since circles have no starting or ending points, they are used to describe movement. It is also the perfect geometric shapre to represent connexion between humans, and commitment for marriage. For example, we can think of wedding bands that are circles.

The meaning of the semicircle symbolic geometry in design

The semicircle, on the other hand, has a rather special meaning. It is a bit like the hidden part of the iceberg. It represents both the visible and the invisible, the perfect and the imperfect. It can also be used to represent the moon crescent shape in design. it is a great shape if you want to stand out.

The signification of the square: what do square represent?

The square shape is the most used shape for logo design creation. They inspire a sense of integrity, security and order. They also tend to represent compliance, equality, and structure in a company, but also an air of solidity and stability. Unlike circles, square shapes usually seem more serious, marking a lack of creativity. This common shape is also considered as a more masculine shape by designers for this reason.

The meaning and personality of rectangles

The rectangular geometric shape has almost the same characteristics as the square. In logo design, when the rectangle is horizontal, it brings a panning effect and sometimes depth, depending on your typography. Your logo will have a more static impact, getting a peaceful feeling.

Regarding the meaning of a rectangle vertically, it has almost the same meaning as the vertical straight line. It brings a sense of greatness, dynamism, and power. It is also a great shape for a business logo.

The signification of the triangle: what do triangles represent?

Because of its vital religious significance, the triangle gives any composition a look of power and energy. Triangles also represent balance because of their three sides. Then finally, as the two sides converge towards the center, the triangle can signify the movement towards the side that the triangle points. Moreover, if the top of the triangle is upwards, then the triangle represents masculinity and power. Conversely, the top of the triangle downward represents femininity and fertility. In sum, triangles are not quite a simple shape.

The meaning of the lozenge

The shape of the lozenge inspires a notion of sharing and exchange. It can be used with rounded or pointed edges. In general, for a logo with a more feminine sound, rounded edges are to be expected, and on the contrary, for a more masculine logo, pointed edges are preferable. it is more and more used by designers.

The meaning of the polygon

It is true that polygons are not a simple shape, but thanks to its many sides, it symbolizes plurality and complexity. It is a form that is reasonably used in construction or science. The polygon, like the square, has a fairly straight and severe side. So, using it as a creative logo or icon would not necessarily represent it well.

The meaning of the diamond

Finally, let's talk about the diamond shape. This shape is often used by designers to represent jewelry. Indeed, it is often associated with immortality because it persists over time, just like jewels, if they are well made. In other areas, the diamond symbol represent incorruptibility. 

You now know the different meanings of the common lines and the shapes you can use to create your logo. We do not recommend using multiple of these great shapes in the same logo. It would then become too loaded and messy. You also can use something other than certain shapes to create your logo. You could create a wordmark logo: a logo where only your company’s name would be present.