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.
Experts believe the statue may have symbolized masculinity, virility, strength, and courage. — Francesca Aton, ARTnews.com, 27 Aug. 2026 Skenes’ recent inconsistency symbolizes a larger step back by the Pittsburgh rotation since the All-Star break, with Jared Jones and Mitch Keller also struggling, pushing the Bucs to the fringe of the playoff race. — Grant Brisbee, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 However, what separates Snapchat from its competitors, Sunday said, are its features that lead to compulsive use, like a daily streak symbolized with a flame. — Lauren Linder, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026 The hearing took place before a packed courtroom at the Leighton Criminal Court Building, as Golden’s supporters wore purple, a color that symbolizes survivors of domestic violence. — Madeline Buckley, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 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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Cite this Entry

“Symbolize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/symbolize. Accessed 1 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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