emblematize

/ɛmˈblɛməˌtaɪz/

Other forms: emblematized; emblematizes; emblematizing

To emblematize is to act as a symbol for something, the way a "thumbs-up" gesture emblematizes encouragement or the American flag emblematizes the United States.

When something emblematizes a larger idea, it acts as an emblem, an object or design that stands in for a concept, group, or business. Think of the peace sign, McDonald's golden arches, or your favorite sports team's logo. People can also act as emblems, when they come to represent an era in history or an ideal. One example is Martin Luther King, Jr., who emblematizes the civil rights movement for many Americans.

Definitions of emblematize

1. verb

   express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol
   synonyms: represent, stand for, symbolise, symbolize, typify

   types:

   be, embody, personify

   represent, as of a character on stage

   epitomise, epitomize, typify

   embody the essential characteristics of or be a typical example of

   body, personify

   invest with or as with a body; give body to

   exemplify, represent

   be characteristic of

   type of:

   intend, mean

   mean or intend to express or convey
2. verb

   represent or identify by using a symbol; use symbols
   synonyms: symbolise, symbolize

   type of:

   represent

   describe or present, usually with respect to a particular quality