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

Sometimes a single day or single event symbolizes the spirit of an age.

Read more on Salon

The following day, on his way to court, Serhii faced news crews and raised three fingers—a Ukrainian salute symbolizing the Tryzub, the national emblem.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

This mutual cooperation embodies the Japanese concept of "AUN," symbolizing balance and harmony between opposites.

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Assistant coach Scott Brooks started his presentation with a photo of a walnut, symbolizing the walnut farm he worked on during the weekends to help his family make ends meet.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It was a ceremonial planting, meant to symbolize the friendship between two great nations, and Kennedy, in the spirit of the event, grabbed a shovel.

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Related Words

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