symbolize

[ sim-buh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, sym·bol·ized, sym·bol·iz·ing.

1. to be a symbol of; stand for or represent in the manner of a symbol.
2. to represent by a symbol or symbols.
3. to regard or treat as symbolic.

verb (used without object)

, sym·bol·ized, sym·bol·iz·ing.

1. to use symbols.

symbolize

/ ˈsɪmbəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to serve as or be a symbol of
2. trusually foll byby to represent by a symbol or symbols
3. intr to use symbols
4. tr to treat or regard as symbolic or figurative

Derived Forms

• ˌsymboliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• re·symbol·ize verb resymbolized resymbolizing
• un·symbol·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of symbolize¹

From the New Latin word symbolizāre, dating back to 1580–90. See symbol, -ize

Example Sentences

Eight long years later, the common housecat continued to symbolize female resistance.

From Salon

They symbolize love, light, abundance and good luck.

From Los Angeles Times

“New York and L.A. have come to symbolize America in distant lands. To be a media capital or a cultural capital is to become a fashion capital.”

From Los Angeles Times

The $30-billion train line has come to symbolize the presidency of López Obrador, an ambitious, often divisive leader obsessed with cementing his legacy.

From Los Angeles Times

“Jo holds her hands up like she’s reading a book, Amy like she’s painting a canvas with a paintbrush, Beth’s on a piano and then Meg’s are up by her face to symbolize an acting mask.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• embody
• epitomize
• exemplify
• illustrate
• indicate
• mean
• mirror
• personify
• signify
• suggest
• typify