symbols

1. 1
   noun

   Plural of symbol.

   Mathematicians rely on a dense set of symbols to write proofs compactly.

   The flag's colors and symbols each carry a distinct historical meaning.

   Note

   A regular plural whose spelling is shared with the verb form. The syntax tells them apart: "the symbols are clear" is the noun, "a dove symbols peace" the verb. The plural covers the singular's whole range: marks and glyphs in mathematics or on maps, things that embody an idea, and, in matters of doctrine, summaries of a dogmatic statement of faith.

2. 2
   verb

   Third-person singular simple present indicative of symbol.

   Note

   A short verb that means the same as its longer and far more familiar cousin, symbolize. In most writing the longer form is the safer choice, because "a chain symbolizes freedom" cannot be misread. "A chain symbols freedom" can look like a slip for the noun. It takes a singular subject and a direct object naming what is represented.

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