symbol
symbol Lexical Profile
symbol Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A mark, sign, or character used as a conventional representation of an object, function, or process.
"The chemical symbol for water is H2O."
A tangible object or shape that represents or stands for something else, especially an abstract idea or concept.
"The dove is universally recognized as a symbol of peace."
• verb
To represent or typify (something); to serve as a symbol for.
"In classical literature, the changing of the seasons often symbols the stages of human life."
Word Nuance & Usage
While 'symbol' is occasionally used as a verb in literature to mean 'represent', the derived verb 'symbolize' is overwhelmingly preferred in standard modern English.
• Rhymes for symbol
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Late Latin 'symbolum' (a creed or token), derived from Greek 'symbolon' (a mark, token, or ticket), from 'symballein' meaning 'to throw together'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.