phallic symbols

phallic symbols,
objects used, in Freudian theory, to represent the phallus, which itself is in its original sense a representation or image of the penis, symbolizing male or regenerative power. Any erect and pointed object may be a phallic symbol: Freud himself in case histories cites objects such as swords, knives, pens, flames, closed umbrellas, and screwdrivers. Psychoanalytic criticism frequently applies itself to the detection of such symbols, whether consciously or unconsciously deployed, as an aid to interpretation.