Symbol

[/ˈsɪmbəl/]
nounmasculinepl: symbols
símbolo
1. A thing that represents or stands for something else, especially a material object representing something abstract
The dove is a symbol of peace.
A pomba é um símbolo de paz.
2. A mark or character used as a conventional representation of an object, function, or process
The chemical symbol for gold is Au.
O símbolo químico do ouro é Au.
3. An arbitrary or conventional sign used in writing or printing relating to a particular field
The @ symbol is used in email addresses.
O símbolo @ é usado em endereços de e-mail.
4. Something that represents a deeper meaning or concept in literature, art, or culture
In the novel, the broken mirror is a symbol of shattered dreams.
No romance, o espelho quebrado é um símbolo de sonhos destruídos.
In Brazilian culture, the symbol of the country (the national flag and coat of arms) holds significant importance in civic life. In the USA, symbols like the bald eagle and Statue of Liberty are deeply embedded in national identity. The word 'símbolo' is widely used in both academic and everyday contexts in Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly in art criticism, literature, and business.
NYC Slang
sign, mark, or 'the 'at' symbol' for @ in tech contexts
Synonyms / Sinônimos
emblemsignrepresentationtokeniconbadge
Antonyms / Antônimos
realityactualitysubstance

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
símbolo
Standard term used throughout Brazil in all contexts
Rio de Janeiro
símbolo
Same as general Brazilian, may use colloquially as 'insígnia' in some contexts
São Paulo
símbolo
Standard usage, often in formal and business contexts
Portugal
símbolo
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; also 'emblema' in some formal contexts

Related Words

symbolismsymbolicsymbolizemetaphorallegorysignify

Related Idioms & Phrases

a symbol of something - to represent or exemplify something
symbolic gesture - an action that represents a larger meaning
symbolic language - language that uses symbols to convey meaning
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