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Do Dreams Have Meaning? It Depends On Who You Ask
Denys Chumak

Denys Chumak

15 Dec 2023

Do Dreams Have Meaning? It Depends On Who You Ask

Dreams have fascinated human beings for centuries. We spend approximately a third of our lives asleep, and during that time, our minds create a complex tapestry of images, emotions, and narratives that we experience as dreams.

However, do dreams have meaning? This is a question that has stumped scientists, psychologists and even philosophers. While some people perceive dreams as random mental activities that have no meaning, others propose that these dreams hide a secret code of our subconscious longings and concerns.

This post will discuss various theories on the interpretation of dreams and the science therein.

Meaning of Dreams Theories

Different interpretations have been proposed throughout history on "Do dreams have meaning?" According to one view, dreams exist as a manner of revealing something from higher beings or the universe. Dreams for ancient civilisation, especially the Egyptians and Greeks, were viewed as prophecies sent by gods on how to guide or predict the future. Recently, psychologist Sigmund Freud postulated that dream is a "royal road to unscience" and it unveils the subconscious desire and repressed memory.

A second hypothesis postulates that dreams help our brains to sift data and make sense of it all. This perspective holds that dreams allow for the interpretation of events and feelings in our lives. It is also good to note that dreams give us our mind's eyes to see and solve problems as well as a safe environment to resolve issues we had not solved back then when they happened. This coincides with the belief that dreams constitute a creative stimulus as they help us access the subconscious realm.

Scientific Explanation of Dreams

Although there are several competing theories concerning dreams, scientists have gained considerable insight into the biological mechanisms active within the phenomenon of dreaming. Scientists argue that the majority of dreams happen in the REM phase – the period with enhanced brain functioning accompanied by active and bright dreaming.

The prefrontal cortex of the brain, involved in logical thinking and decision-making, shows decreased activity during REM sleep, whereas the amygdala, which processes emotions, becomes more active. This unique brain activity during REM sleep suggests that dreams are a result of the brain's attempt to make sense of the neural activity occurring during this stage.

It is believed that the brain synthesises memories, emotions, and sensory experiences into a narrative form, creating the dreams we remember upon waking. This process helps to consolidate memories and emotions, providing a form of emotional regulation and stress relief.

Also read: Why do people dream

Common Dream Symbols and Their Interpretations

Dreams often contain symbols that can be interpreted in various ways. While there is no universal dream dictionary that can definitively decipher these symbols, many common interpretations have emerged over time. For example, dreaming of falling can symbolise a lack of control or insecurity, while dreaming of flying can represent freedom and empowerment. Snakes are often associated with hidden dangers or deceit, while water can symbolise emotions and the subconscious mind.

It is important to note that these interpretations are not set in stone and can vary depending on the individual's personal experiences and cultural beliefs. For instance, in some cultures, seeing a black cat in a dream is considered a sign of good luck, while in others, it is seen as a bad omen. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the context and the individual's unique associations when interpreting dream symbols.

Also read: 11 common symbols of dreams

Personal Experiences and Cultural Beliefs About Dreams

Personal experiences and cultural beliefs play a significant role in how individuals perceive and interpret their dreams. Some people may have vivid dreams that feel incredibly real, while others may struggle to remember their dreams at all.

Additionally, cultural beliefs and traditions can shape one's understanding of dreams. For example, Native American tribes view dreams as a way to connect with their ancestors and receive guidance, whereas in Western societies, dreams are often seen as a reflection of one's subconscious mind.

Sometimes, individuals may find assistance from an interpreter of their dreams from a professional. Dream analysis or therapy may help an individual understand unconscious thinking and feelings, which could lead to some self-awareness. Additionally, online sources such as a dream dictionary and s to assist in interpreting dream symbols and interpretation are readily available.

Conclusion

Lastly, it is a matter of opinion as to whether dreams really have any significance. It all depends upon whom you consult. Although science helped explain the physical aspects of dreaming, interpreting dreams is still very personal. While dreams have a wealth of informative value about what we think, feel, and want, there is no such thing as strictly interpretable meaning. Personal experiences, cultural beliefs, and individual associations should be considered when interpreting the meaning of dreams.

Therefore, when you wake up after having had an interesting dream, stop for a while and think about what it might mean, but keep in mind that the real meaning is hidden inside yourself and depends upon how you understand everything.

You can use the app known as DreamApp to interpret the message hidden in that dream. We need to identify the reasons why we have that dream and what prevents us from being at peace psychologically.

FAQs

1. Why do people dream?

The exact purpose of dreaming is still a topic of debate among scientists and researchers. However, various theories suggest that dreams serve as a way for our brains to process and consolidate information, explore unresolved issues, and provide emotional regulation.

2. How does a dream work?

Dreams occur during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep, characterised by increased brain activity and vivid dreaming. The brain synthesises memories, emotions, and sensory experiences into a narrative form during this stage, creating the dreams we remember upon waking.

3. Where do dreams come from?

Dreams originate from the brain's attempt to make sense of the neural activity occurring during REM sleep. The brain synthesises memories, emotions, and sensory experiences into dream narratives.

4. What is a dream dictionary?

This is a book called a dream dictionary which interprets typical dream symbols. Though interpretations may differ, these dream dictionaries provide directions on what a dream symbol might represent.

5. What role can DreamApp play in interpreting dreams?

DreamApp relies on algorithms and analysis to explain the significance of dreams. The app interprets the dream by letting individuals enter their dream’s details, which explains the reason behind such dreams and hence offers insight into subconscious thoughts and feelings.

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14 Jun 2026

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Graduation

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1. Graduation Dream I was in a hotel room for a 12th-grade graduation, even though I’m actually homeschooling. I knew some of the other graduates. Someone said my “Cuban lunch” I made got a 97, which surprised and pleased me. When I went to the beds to get my grades/diploma, I was nervous because I know I’m not done with my lessons yet. Instead, they handed me papers with words and blank spaces—summer make-up work I wasn’t planning to do. I never got my diploma or final grades in the dream. 2. Billie Eilish Dream (my favorite) Billie Eilish appeared again (her third time in my dreams). We seemed to be girlfriends. We were in a medieval palace-like library with tall ceilings, chandeliers, and walls full of bookshelves. A podcast interview was happening with a combative host. I walked up to Billie (who had blue hair), looked at the host, and said, “Yo. Hey babe. who’s this guy?” The host and I got into a little bit of a confrontation for a few seconds. Billie and I then went to the front of the house to see her new car: a black Koenigsegg with black interior, no roof, and a self-adjusting seat. She had her short blonde hair and had this blue and red bikini on even though she wasn't going in the car with me. She put the key in the ignition and let the car drive itself. The car was insanely fast, like a rollercoaster. I was screaming from fun, not fear, and even shouted, “slow down!!! woooooooooooo!!!” My seat teleported from front passenger → front middle → back middle without me moving. I tried playing louder music because I wanted the car to vibrate more and for everyone to know I was in a Koenigsegg. At a red light, the light stayed red too long, then turned green, and we flew past a white Corvette. That was the end. 3. Unsettling Family Dream I was at my aunt’s dimly-lit one-bedroom duplex, not going inside, with my mom in front of me; the TV was lit inside and visible through the window. Then we were back at my old apartment from when I was ~12. My mom was on the phone with my aunt, fussing at her. She got off and told me my aunt had moved out of that apartment and went somewhere else. I was scared she’d live with us again (she did for about a month in real life and I hated it). I was confused because in real life my mom was happy she found a new place. I got a text from Auntie Carmen with videos and photos from a party back in Florida. They were cussing, drinking, using the n‑slur, and Auntie Damaris said “hello (f‑slur)”, which shocked and disappointed me. They laughed and carried on. I showed it to my mom; she didn’t say anything, and I assumed she was mad. The dream ended there. 4. Liminal Spaces Dream I dreamed of a liminal, weirdcore place: rows of perfectly aligned single-family homes in a straight line, colorful and slightly fuzzy, like “an apple and a unicorn as a gradient.” The whole area felt surreal and beautiful. I was tending my little lawn, and then I helped someone a few houses down move their stuff to the front of their lawn. That was the end.

14 Jun 2026

Apartment
Auditorium
Being chased by murderer
Girlfriend
School
Aunt

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I was being chased by a man and hid in my apartment bathroom while trying to call 911, but I couldn’t speak. The apartment looked like my real apartment, but it felt like mine in the dream instead of my mom’s. The dream then changed to a hotel room with my mom and aunt, and I had invited a girl who felt like my girlfriend. Later, my aunt questioned me about throwing away toilet paper, and I got defensive because she was digging through the trash. I then saw my mom doing her hair in the bathroom mirror, and I felt embarrassed and tense, then went back to bed. I was in a white liminal hallway with red velvet floors, high windows, and repeating doors with pillars between them. I was poorly dressed (messy bun, black robe, hairy legs) and felt insecure. I saw Billie Eilish, who looked gorgeous and masculine-presenting, and I freaked out. She was cordial but a bit awkward with my intensity. She invited me to follow her down the hallway, but then other fans ran toward us for her event. I was led into the auditorium where she thanked fans, showed a film from her “Hit Me Hard and Soft” tour, and got emotional. During the hug line, I hugged her and latched onto her hand; she held on. Her hand was warm and slightly grippy. I felt like I was in heaven and amazed she held my hand. Afterwards, we sat down and she showed a movie. I was in an unfamiliar public-school-like building where I was a teacher for half the class while an older woman was the real teacher for the full class. I taught math, then a girl claimed my desk, made a big deal, and I left the school. At the back, I met a girl who also skipped school, and we saw sports guys laughing like they were on LSD. We teleported to a Walmart where one guy was on the floor laughing, then teleported back to school. I got a phone call from someone whose last name started with G, not my mom’s Anderson, so I hung up. Then I got a text from my mom on Instagram with a photo of me and my girlfriend at the same hotel, with the ominous message “I know.” I went through many locked doors into a vault-like area, then into a pink, glittery, Barbie-style dream room. I “stole” Cheetos, chains, and a Hello Kitty item, threw them at the woman when she returned, and she accepted my excuse. I explored her bathroom, found a tile that lifted into a hidden place, commented on a pink butt plug, and she was flattered. I put on glittery pink-and-black lingerie (off-the-shoulder, flowy), she said I looked pretty, and we got intimate on the bed. The woman wasn’t Billie Eilish but felt familiar. The dream felt rebellious and awesome.

13 Jun 2026

dream-about-haunted-doll-and-colosseum
Mountain lion
Flirting
Friend
Church
Living Room
Mirror

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I had a dream i owned a haunted doll u could open it up like a locket i dont remember if u could open it from its body or head but when you’d open it thered be an inner circle and the doll would start laughing slowly and creepily and play a creepy tune like a music box. I found that out bc i thrifted it and when i ooened it it did that. Then i wanted to show my mom and she was in a different room i think on a couch so i went to the living room where the doll was on a table and i opened it and it laughed creepily and slowly. I went back to the room with my mom and she told me “I heard it omg.” And then i met this asian guy from a garage ok wait this is bc i went to lana it was her bday party and we were going to the colosseum in greece ok and she told me to climb the mountains and slide down the riverbeds and wait for her in the colloseum. When i arrived the colloseum seemed like a church and there were writings on the limestone walls in the building i didnt read them tho. There was a room and inside my dad was there, an asian boy, and some grown white man. He was rly creepy he asked for my number. “I dont have your number. You want my number? its ____.” Like buddy i didnt ask for it. And then my dad said “no she’s okay.” And then the asian guy stepped in and started flirting with there was this tall mirror and it showed his reflection he looked like dave, filo, curly hair, but lore chinito eyes js like a regular teen but not my type like when i saw him i thought “this would be sam’s type” (my friend). And this asian guy came up to me and said “Now that I’ve seen you i’m coming to your house more often on trash day.” And im like on trash day?? You’re gonna look thru my trash or something? And i remember laughing and then told him im gonna curse him by giving him the haunted doll. Omg and samuel (mutual friend of the guy who played me last year) was in my dream again as a lover its irritating me but i was too sleepy to like write it down

13 Jun 2026

Game
Mirror
Coins
Face
Highway
Lashes

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First dream was I was walking with my little sister and my dad at this big highway with cars coming in (because there was some sort of treasure chest at the end) and we were talking about how unsafe it is for eden because what if there are pedophiles who are looking out their window at her or something?… I had a second dream where we were at someones house it was a gathering and everyyone i knew were there sitting criss cross applesauce in a circle and yosh had a brother who came up to me and yosh followed and told him “She looks so asian right?” And he said “She doesn’t look THAT asian..” and yosh’s brother looked at me and smiled and then my grandma also came and stayed by me and i went to look at the mirror happy bc he said that until i saw my puffy face and uncurled lashes sobi went to grab my lash curler…. Then i saw some 2 orher people and we were suddenly in a scary game i think it was nat and some other girl and we defeated this creature and reached a place where we can thrift stuff with robux but i thought it was coins or vice versa idek

13 Jun 2026

dream-about-lexi-bennett
Art
Conversation
Girl
Jealousy

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I had a dream about someone I think I have feelings for and her name is Lexi Bennett. So like we were in art and she was like “you drawing looks good can I see?” And I said sure and then she offered to help me with it so ofc i said yes. She gets up to get some supplies and then I look at Jayce and say “hell yeah” and gives me a weird look like I shouldn’t be talking to her. Lexi comes back and helps me with my art and then the dream cuts to when I’m at home and she face times me and we’re talking but she’s kind of mean until she says “before I hang up… I need to know what you’re wearing tomorrow.” And I ask why and she gets super defensive about it and then tries to guess what I’ll wear.I eventually tell her what I’m wearing then her mom walks in the room and she hangs up

13 Jun 2026

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Mother
Police
Prison
Lesbian
Bed
Sexual Abuse

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I had a dream that I emailed the school reposting thst my ex boyfriend sexually assaulted me and they respond with smth lik “ok well handle it” and then a few hours later the police came to my classroom and told me to come with him and I was like ok and he sends me to this bus and I go in and I see my friend so I sit next to her and we’re both confused until we get to the jail, then it skips to us at lunch and I ask “what are you in for?” And she said she got raped and I was like omg I’m so sorry for that, I got sexually assaulted. When it’s time to go outside we head outside and just talk until someone comes up to us and is like “your new here right?” And we go “yes” and the person is like “how is it?” And my friend stays quiet but I say “it’s not that bad, their are a lot of lesbians here, not really a problem because I’m a lesbian.” And then SHES like ooo me too. And then I get a flash back to when the police was walking me through the cells and there were a bunch of lesbians checking to see if I was also lesbian. And in the corner of my eye I see my lesbian teacher smiling at me but I look away quickly. Anyway it’s dark outside and we go inside and I meet my cellmate and SHES a really pretty masc lesbian and then it cuts to us having sex…. Then it cuts to me in my room in my bed waking up and my mom is like “I’m so proud of you for telling someone you got sexually assaulted” and then the bus comes again to pick me up to go back to jail and when I’m rushing to get my clothes I get a flashback of me and my cell mate scissoring

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