symbolize

verb

sym·​bol·​ize ˈsim-bə-ˌlīz How to pronounce symbolize (audio)
symbolized; symbolizing

transitive verb

1
: to serve as a symbol of
2
: to represent, express, or identify by a symbol
symbolizer noun

Examples of symbolize in a Sentence

She came to symbolize the women's movement in America. the flag symbolizes our country
Recent Examples on the Web But these crimson flashers have inspired at least one riot, are a fascinating technological innovation, and, really, symbolize a rather beautiful altruistic method of human communication. Susan Howson, Quartz, 24 Mar. 2024 The blossoms, with a short life span in the best of circumstances, symbolize not only beauty, but also the fleeting nature and fragility of beauty. Martin Weil, Washington Post, 23 Mar. 2024 These adorable macaroon-like coconut nest cookies symbolize new life in the most charming and whimsical way. Sunset Staff, Sunset Magazine, 21 Mar. 2024 Dye eggs Eggs, which symbolize new life, are a notable part of Easter. Anna Halkidis, Parents, 20 Mar. 2024 This initiative symbolizes our commitment to making space exploration accessible to all while also highlighting the potential of financial innovations are represented by cryptocurrencies. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 14 Mar. 2024 Many stars in attendance used their platforms to call for global peace, while others wore red pins to symbolize their support for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. 4. Alexandra Banner, CNN, 11 Mar. 2024 The spring equinox symbolizes renewal and rejuvenation, the transition from darkness to light as nature emerges from the dormancy of winter. The Arizona Republic, 9 Mar. 2024 The first contains standard coins symbolizing a gift from the sovereign for food and clothing, and the second is filled with Maundy coins amounting to the monarch’s age, the royal family’s website said. Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 5 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'symbolize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of symbolize was in 1603

Dictionary Entries Near symbolize

Cite this Entry

“Symbolize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/symbolize. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

symbolize

verb
sym·​bol·​ize ˈsim-bə-ˌlīz How to pronounce symbolize (audio)
symbolized; symbolizing
: to serve as a symbol of
symbolization
ˌsim-bə-lə-ˈzā-shən
noun

Medical Definition

symbolize

transitive verb
sym·​bol·​ize
variants also British symbolise
symbolized also British symbolised; symbolizing also British symbolising
1
: to serve as a symbol of
2
: to represent, express, or identify by a symbol

More from Merriam-Webster on symbolize

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