Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.

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.

Source : WordNet®

symbolize
     v 1: express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol;
          "What does the Statue of Liberty symbolize?" [syn: {typify},
           {symbolise}, {stand for}, {represent}]
     2: represent or identify by using a symbol; use symbols; "The
        poet symbolizes love in this poem"; "These painters
        believed that artists should symbolize" [syn: {symbolise}]