symbolization

noun

sym·bol·i·za·tion ˌsim-bə-lə-ˈzā-shən

1

: an act or instance of symbolizing

2

: the human capacity to develop a system of meaningful symbols

Examples of symbolization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web But making art also depends on our capacity for symbolization. —

Pamela Weintraub, Discover Magazine, 1 Mar. 2012 This herb is prized in many cultures for its symbolization of fortitude and can be taken in supplement form. —

Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 9 Nov. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'symbolization.' 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 sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of symbolization was in 1603

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Symbolization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/symbolization. Accessed 21 Sep. 2023.

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Medical Definition

symbolization

noun

sym·bol·iza·tion

variants also British symbolisation

ˌsim-bə-lə-ˈzā-shən, -ˌlī-

: the act or process of symbolizing

specifically : symbolic representation of a repressed complex (as in dreams)

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