CEFR B2

symbolise

verb

Meaning

Serve as a physical or visual representation of an abstract idea, quality, or belief.

In many cultures, the color white is used to symbolise purity and innocence.
The broken chains in the sculpture symbolise the end of slavery and the achievement of freedom.

Synonyms: mean, stand for, represent, embody, typify

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈsɪmbəlaɪz/

Serve as a physical or visual representation of an abstract idea, quality, or belief.

In many cultures, the color white is used to symbolise purity and innocence.
The broken chains in the sculpture symbolise the end of slavery and the achievement of freedom.
These ancient ruins symbolise the enduring power of a civilization that vanished centuries ago.

symbolise something (collocation): direct transitive use with an object — "The flag symbolises national unity."
be symbolised by (collocation): passive construction — "The era is symbolised by rapid industrial growth."

Words with a similar meaning to symbolise: