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
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.
Sierra’s presence on the mound alongside Wainwright symbolizes the connection between generations—one player who learned from Kile and other Cardinals greats, and a daughter carrying her father’s story forward. Andy Frye, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025 The wreath placed on top of the coffin included white roses, symbolizing the white rose of Yorkshire, where Katharine was born. Stephanie Petit, PEOPLE, 16 Sep. 2025 His visit included a stop at the Berlin Wall, symbolizing his stand against barriers that divide humanity. Arizona Republic, AZCentral.com, 13 Sep. 2025 Biden and, by extension, Harris will be remembered even and perhaps especially by Democrats as symbolizing disappointment and defeat. W. James Antle Iii, The Washington Examiner, 12 Sep. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Symbolize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/symbolize. Accessed 19 Sep. 2025.

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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