Symbol

sim′bol, n. a sign by which one knows a thing: an arbitrary or other conventional mark, abbreviating methods of scientific expre ion, as in algebra, and esp. chemistry: an emblem: that which represents something else: a figure or letter representing something: ( theol. ) a creed, compendium of doctrine, or a typical religious rite, as the Eucharist.— adjs. Symbol′ic , -al , pertaining to, or of the nature of, a symbol: representing by signs: emblematic: figurative: typical.— adv. Symbol′ically .— ns. Symbol′icalne ; Symbol′ics , the study of the history and contents of Christian creeds; Symbol isā′tion .— v.i. Sym′bolise , to be symbolical: to resemble in qualities.— v.t. to represent by symbols.— ns. Sym′boliser , Sym′bolist , one who uses symbols; Sym′bolism , representation by symbols or signs: a system of symbols: use of symbols: ( theol. ) the science of symbols or creeds.— adjs. Symbolist′ic , -al .— ns. Symbol′ogy , Symbolol′ogy , the art of representing by symbols; Symbolol′atry , undue veneration for symbols; Sym′bolry , the use of symbols generally. [Gr. symbol on , from symballein — syn , together, ballein , to throw.]