represent

Represent is defined as to express in words, symbolize or stand for.

(verb)

An example of represent is a loyalty pledge.
An example of represent is for a communion wafer to stand for Christ's body.
An example of represent is a symbol that is written to stand for a specific word such as an equal sign.

See represent in Webster's New World College Dictionary

transitive verb

to present or picture to the mind
1. to present a likeness or image of; portray; depict
2. to be a likeness or image of, as a picture or statue may be
to present in words; describe, state, or set forth; specif.,
1. to describe as having a specified character
2. to set forth forcibly or earnestly, so as to influence action, persuade hearers, make effective protest, etc.
1. to be a sign or symbol for; stand for; symbolize: x represents the unknown
2. to denote by symbols, characters, etc.: to represent quantities by letters
to be the equivalent of; correspond to, as in a different place or time: a cave represented home to them
1. to present, produce, or perform (a play, etc.)
2. to act the part of (a character), as in a play
to act or stand in place of; be an agent, proxy, or substitute for
to speak and act for by duly conferred authority, as an ambassador for a country or a legislator for constituents
to serve as a specimen, example, type, or instance of; exemplify or typify

Origin: ME representen < OFr representer < L repraesentare < re-, again + praesentare: see re- & present,

Related Forms:

See represent in American Heritage Dictionary 4

transitive verb rep·re·sent·ed, rep·re·sent·ing, rep·re·sents

a. To stand for; symbolize: The bald eagle represents the United States.
b. To indicate or communicate by signs or symbols: Letters of the alphabet represent sounds.
a. To depict in art; portray.
b. To describe or present in words; set forth.
To present clearly to the mind.
To draw attention to by way of remonstrance or protest: Our parents represented to us the need for greater caution.
To describe or put forward (a person or thing) as an embodiment of a specified quality.
a. To serve as the official and authorized delegate or agent for.
b. To act as a spokesperson for.
To serve as an example of: The museum had several paintings representing the artist's early style.
To be the equivalent of.
a. To stage (a play, for example); produce.
b. To act the part or role of.