Symbolize: meaning, definitions and examples

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symbolize

[ ˈsɪmbəˌlaɪz ]

^{Context #1}

in communication

To represent something by using symbols or symbolism. It can also mean to be a symbol of something.

Synonyms

represent, signify, stand for

Examples of usage

The dove symbolizes peace.
The color red symbolizes passion and love.

^{Context #2}

in literature

To use symbols or symbolism in a literary work to convey deeper meanings or themes.

Synonyms

embody, represent, signify

Examples of usage

The author symbolizes the darkness as the protagonist's inner turmoil.

^{Context #3}

in mathematics

To represent a quantity, operation, relation, or other mathematical entity using symbols.

Synonyms

denote, represent, stand for

Examples of usage

In algebra, letters are used to symbolize unknown numbers.

Translations

Translations of the word "symbolize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 simbolizar

🇮🇳 प्रतीकात्मक करना

🇩🇪 symbolisieren

🇮🇩 melambangkan

🇺🇦 символізувати

🇵🇱 symbolizować

🇯🇵 象徴する

🇫🇷 symboliser

🇪🇸 simbolizar

🇹🇷 sembolize etmek

🇰🇷 상징하다

🇸🇦 يرمز

🇨🇿 symbolizovat

🇸🇰 symbolizovať

🇨🇳 象征

🇸🇮 simbolizirati

🇮🇸 tákna

🇰🇿 білдіру

🇬🇪 სიმბოლიზირება

🇦🇿 simvolizə etmək

🇲🇽 simbolizar

Word origin

The word 'symbolize' originated from the late 18th century, derived from the noun 'symbol' and the suffix '-ize', which means 'to make' or 'to become'. The concept of symbolizing has been present throughout human history, from ancient civilizations using symbols to convey meanings to modern-day communication and art.