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Symbol: meaning, definitions and examples

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symbol

[ ˈsɪmbəl ]

Noun / Verb

Oxford 3000

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mathematics

A symbol is a mark or character used to represent an object, function, or process, such as +, -, *, / in mathematics.

Synonyms

character, glyph, sign

Examples of usage

In the equation 2 + 3 = 5, the symbol + represents addition.
Symbols like % or $ are often used to denote percentage or currency values.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

communication

A symbol can also refer to an object or image that represents a concept, idea, or relationship.

Synonyms

emblem, representation, token

Examples of usage

The dove is a symbol of peace.
In many cultures, the color white is a symbol of purity.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

general

To symbolize means to represent something by using symbols or imagery.

Synonyms

embody, represent, stand for

Examples of usage

The red rose symbolizes love and passion.
Wearing a black armband can symbolize mourning or remembrance.

Translations

Translations of the word "symbol" in other languages:

🇵🇹 símbolo

🇮🇳 प्रतीक

🇩🇪 Symbol

🇮🇩 simbol

🇺🇦 символ

🇵🇱 symbol

🇯🇵 シンボル (shinboru)

🇫🇷 symbole

🇪🇸 símbolo

🇹🇷 sembol

🇰🇷 기호 (giho)

🇸🇦 رمز (ramz)

🇨🇿 symbol

🇸🇰 symbol

🇨🇳 符号 (fúhào)

🇸🇮 simbol

🇮🇸 tákn

🇰🇿 символ

🇬🇪 სიმბოლო (simbŏlo)

🇦🇿 simvol

🇲🇽 símbolo

Word origin

The term 'symbol' originated from the Latin word 'symbolus,' which in turn came from the Greek word 'symbolon,' meaning a mark, token, or sign. Symbols have played a crucial role in human communication and representation throughout history, from ancient hieroglyphics to modern-day emojis. They are used to convey complex ideas and concepts in a concise and visually appealing manner.