1. The act of symbolizing, or the state of being symbolized; as, symbolism in Christian art is the representation
of truth, virtues, vices, etc., by emblematic colors, signs, and forms.
2. A system of symbols or representations.
3. (Chem.) (a) The practice of using symbols, or the system of notation developed thereby. (b) A
combining together of parts or ingredients. [Obs.]
4. (Theol.) The science of creeds; symbolics.
Symbolist
(Sym"bol*ist), n. One who employs symbols.
Symbolistic
(Sym`bol*is"tic Sym`bol*is"tic*al) a. Characterized by the use of symbols; as, symbolistic
poetry.
Symbolization
(Sym`bol*i*za"tion) n. [Cf. F. symbolisation.] The act of symbolizing; symbolical representation.
Sir T. Browne.
Symbolize
(Sym"bol*ize) v. i. [imp. & p. p. Symbolized ; p. pr. & vb. n. Symbolizing ] [Cf. F. symboliser.]
1. To have a resemblance of qualities or properties; to correspond; to harmonize.
The pleasing of color symbolizeth with the pleasing of any single tone to the ear; but the pleasing of
order doth symbolize with harmony.
Bacon.
They both symbolize in this, that they love to look upon themselves through multiplying glasses.
Howell. 2. To hold the same faith; to agree. [R.]
The believers in pretended miracles have always previously symbolized with the performers of them.
G.
S. Faber. 3. To use symbols; to represent ideas symbolically.
Symbolize
(Sym"bol*ize), v. t.
1. To make to agree in properties or qualities.
2. To make representative of something; to regard or treat as symbolic. "Some symbolize the same
from the mystery of its colors." Sir T. Browne.
3. To represent by a symbol or symbols.
Symbolizer
(Sym"bol*i`zer) n. One who symbolizes.
