symbolize

especially British, sym·bol·ise

[sim-buh-lahyz]

verb (used with object)

symbolized, symbolizing 

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)

symbolized, symbolizing 

1. to use symbols.

symbolize

/ ˈsɪmbəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to serve as or be a symbol of

2. to represent by a symbol or symbols

3. (intr) to use symbols

4. (tr) to treat or regard as symbolic or figurative

Other Word Forms

• resymbolize verb
• unsymbolized adjective
• symbolization noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of symbolize¹

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

Example Sentences

All of this is foretold and symbolized in “Sundae.”

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A passionate night is followed by a tearful goodbye, an emotional revelation, a dramatic dash to the train station, and the return of the infinity necklace that has symbolized their love since Season 1.

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Isis symbolizes healing and maternal love and was worshiped from England to Afghanistan during the time of the Roman Empire.

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And the fact that Kirk was killed on a campus is, I think, heartbreaking because campuses symbolize a place where you can engage in political debate in a way that encourages intellectual exploration.

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The president’s militarism and increasingly belligerent foreign policy, as symbolized by his War Department, is a betrayal of these voters.

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Related Words

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