Difference between revisions of "Symbol"
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| − | A '''symbol''' is something that is used for or regarded as representing something else. It may be a material object which represents an abstract or immaterial entity or idea such as a [[fish]] or [[cross] to represent [[Christianity]]. | + | A '''symbol''' is something that is used for or regarded as representing something else. It may be a material object which represents an abstract or immaterial entity or idea such as a [[fish]] or [[cross]] to represent [[Christianity]]. |
A symbol can be a single [[character]], [[letter]], [[number]], shape or a combination of several of these to designate something. In [[mathematics]] the [[algebra]]ic symbols ''x'' and ''y'' represent unknown or variable quantities. In [[chemistry]] the [[elements]] are assigned one ot two-letter symbols such as He for [[helium]]. In financial markets stocks, bonds, [[mutual fund]]s etc. are are given symbols comprising a small series of letters. Generally the fewer letters that a financial instrument has then the more important and widely traded it is. | A symbol can be a single [[character]], [[letter]], [[number]], shape or a combination of several of these to designate something. In [[mathematics]] the [[algebra]]ic symbols ''x'' and ''y'' represent unknown or variable quantities. In [[chemistry]] the [[elements]] are assigned one ot two-letter symbols such as He for [[helium]]. In financial markets stocks, bonds, [[mutual fund]]s etc. are are given symbols comprising a small series of letters. Generally the fewer letters that a financial instrument has then the more important and widely traded it is. | ||
Revision as of 10:59, September 10, 2008
A symbol is something that is used for or regarded as representing something else. It may be a material object which represents an abstract or immaterial entity or idea such as a fish or cross to represent Christianity.
A symbol can be a single character, letter, number, shape or a combination of several of these to designate something. In mathematics the algebraic symbols x and y represent unknown or variable quantities. In chemistry the elements are assigned one ot two-letter symbols such as He for helium. In financial markets stocks, bonds, mutual funds etc. are are given symbols comprising a small series of letters. Generally the fewer letters that a financial instrument has then the more important and widely traded it is.
A symbol can also be a word, phrase, image or object that embodies a complex of associated meanings and values: e.g "motherhood and apple pie", the "Dunkerque spirit", or flag of the USA.