A Symbol Was Once Half of a Broken Object
A symbol stands for something else. The Greek original was a token snapped in two, so that two halves could later prove a connection.
A symbol is something that stands for something else. The Greek *symbolon* was a physical object: a bone or coin broken in two, with each party keeping a half, so that matching the pieces years later proved the bond between them. The word literally means thrown together, and it named the act of fitting the halves back into one.
- A thing standing for another. *A symbol of hope.*
- A written sign. *The chemical symbol for gold.*
- Symbolic — the adjective. *A symbolic gesture.*
- Symbolism — the use of symbols. *Religious symbolism.*
- Status symbol — a possession signalling rank. *A status symbol.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | symbol | A national symbol. |
| Plural | symbols | Mathematical symbols. |
| Adjective | symbolic | Symbolic value. |
| Verb | symbolise | It symbolises unity. |
| Confusable | cymbal | A crash cymbal. |
- The olive branch is a symbol of peace.Traditional.
- The resignation was largely symbolic.Meaning: gesture rather than effect.
- Ag is the symbol for silver.Chemistry.
Symbol or cymbal?
- Symbol — something that represents something else
- Cymbal — a metal percussion instrument
- Same sound — a homophone pair that spellcheckers cannot resolve
- Cymbal comes from Greek *kymbe*, a hollow vessel
- No relation — the two words simply collided in English pronunciation
Greek *symbolon*, a token or pledge, from *syn-*, together, and *ballein*, to throw. English took it in the 1400s, first for a creed or statement of faith.
What was a Greek symbolon?
An object broken in two so that each party kept a half. Matching the halves later proved the relationship between them.
What is the difference between a sign and a symbol?
A sign points directly at something; a symbol stands for it by convention or association, often carrying more meaning.