symbolize

verb

sym·​bol·​ize ˈsim-bə-ˌlīz 

symbolized; symbolizing

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

• represent

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

The parade ended with the release of 80,000 doves and an equal number of balloons in a visual spectacle symbolizing peace. —Anniek Bao, CNBC, 3 Sep. 2025

In Christian lore, the sycamore also symbolizes repentance, humility, and forgiveness of one’s sins, evoked by the story of the tax collector Zacchaeus, who climbed one to see Jesus. —Ellen Walker, JSTOR Daily, 3 Sep. 2025

Two prized hams that sold for the price a luxury SUV might fetch help symbolize what drives the Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair. —Andy Humbles, The Tennessean, 30 Aug. 2025

This weekend may symbolize summer coming to a close, but that shouldn’t stop you from cashing in on this 80%-off fashion find. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for symbolize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

symbolize

verb

sym·​bol·​ize ˈsim-bə-ˌlīz 

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 

symbolized also British symbolised; symbolizing also British symbolising

1

: to serve as a symbol of

2

: to represent, express, or identify by a symbol