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Symbol |
 | | A symbol, in its basic sense, is a conventional representation of a concept; i.e., an idea, object, quality, quantity, etc. In more psychological and philosophical terms, all concepts are symbolic in nature, and representations for these concepts are simply token artifacts that are allegorical to (but do not directly codify) a symbolic meaning, or symbolism. |
 | | From the most general systemics perspective, as used on maps, a symbol is a communication means: it is a graphical, written, vocal or other physical object which, usually in a syntetic sense, is used to the representation of another, more complex, physical or abstract object, or an object property. |
 | | The word "symbol" came to the English language by way of Middle English, from Old French, from Latin, from the Greek σύμβολον súmbolon from the root words σύμ- (sym-) meaning "together" and βολή bolḗ "a throw", having the approximate meaning of "to throw together", literally a "co-incidence" (zu-fall), also "sign, ticket, or contract". |
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