ETYM Latin symbolus, symbolum, Greek symbolon a sign by which one knows or infers a thing: from Greek, to throw or put together, to compare; syn with + ballein to throw: cf. French symbole. Related to Emblem, Parable.
(Homonym: cymbal).
In general, something that stands for something else. A symbol may be an esthetic device or a sign used to convey information visually, thus saving time, eliminating language barriers, or overcoming illiteracy.
Symbols are used in art, mathematics, music, and literature; for practical use in science and medicine; for road signs; and as warnings—for example, a skull and crossbones to indicate dangerous contents.
1. An arbitrary sign (written or printed) that has acquired a conventional significance.
2. Something visible that by association or convention represents something else that is invisible; SYN. symbolization, symbolizing, standing for. + prikaži više