'symbolize' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'symbolon,' where 'sym-' meant 'together' and 'ballein' meant 'to throw.'

'symbolon' transformed into the Latin word 'symbolum,' and eventually became the modern English word 'symbolize' through Old French 'symboliser.'

Initially, it meant 'to throw together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to represent or stand for something.'