German word

Symbol

Pronunciation

IPA/zʏmˈboːl/

Meaning

  • neuter nounsymbol

Example

Die Kreuze am Eingang sind Symbole der Stadt.

The crosses at the entrance are symbols of the city.

Illustration for Symbol (symbol)

More examples

Das rote Band ist ein Symbol der Solidarität.

The red ribbon is a symbol of solidarity.

Core concept

A visible mark or object that carries an abstract idea beyond its physical form.

Common phrases

  • ein Symbol für Hoffnung

    a symbol of hope

  • das Symbol der Freiheit

    the symbol of freedom

  • kulturelles Symbol

    cultural symbol

Similar words

Zeichen: A visible mark or gesture used to communicate something.
Logo: A distinctive design made to identify a company or group.
Emblem: A formal symbol associated with an organization, nation, or institution.
Wahrzeichen: A well-known landmark that represents a place or city.

Definition in German

Ein Symbol ist ein Bild, Zeichen oder Objekt, das für etwas Abstraktes oder Allgemeines steht.

Word origin

German Symbol comes through Latin from Greek symbolon, a token associated with recognition and agreement.

Usage tips

  • Symbol is neuter in German, with the plural form Symbole and the common pattern ein Symbol fuer etwas.

Other meanings

  • signnoun
  • characternoun

Opposites

  • Realitätrealitynoun
  • Konkretheitconcretenessnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word