symbolize

verb

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

transitive verb

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

intransitive verb

: to use symbols or symbolism
symbolizer noun

Synonyms of symbolize

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the 1925 novel, the appearance of fledglings symbolizes freedom, confinement and even spiritual rebirth, themes that follow lead characters Clarissa and Sally (whom Edebiri portrays) as the story unfolds. — Bianca Betancourt, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2026 Li said that the crossing would become a new landmark symbolizing the two nations' traditional friendship. — ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026 Nubar is a Kurdish word symbolizing a fresh start and new beginnings, just like Mustafa's. — Charlie De Mar, CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 That combination both literally and figuratively symbolizes how the program has risen. — Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 11 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for symbolize

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

Rhymes for symbolize

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Browse Nearby Words

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symbolize
symbolizer
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Cite this Entry

“Symbolize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/symbolize. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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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
ˈsim-bə-ˌlīz How to pronounce symbolize (audio)
symbolized also British symbolised; symbolizing also British symbolising
1
: to serve as a symbol of
2
: to represent, express, or identify by a symbol
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