Symbol
A symbol is something such as an object, picture, written word, sound, or particular mark that represents something else by association, resemblance, or convention. For example, a red octagon may be a symbol for "STOP". On maps, crossed sabres may indicate a battlefield. Numerals are symbols for numbers (amounts). All language consists of symbols. Personal names are symbols representing individuals.
Ethymology
The word symbol came to the English language by way of Middle English, from Old French, from Latin, from the Greek σύμβολο (sýmbolon) from the root words συν- (syn-), meaning "together," and βολή (bole), "a throw", having the approximate meaning of "to throw together", literally a "co-incidence", also "sign, ticket, or contract". The earliest attestation of the term is in the Homeric Hymn to Hermes where Hermes on seeing the tortoise exclaims συμβολον ηδη μοι "symbolon [symbol/sign/portent/encounter/chance find?] of joy to me!" before turning it into a lyre.
Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition further complicates the matter. Alone, the cross is a symbol of Christianity. However, a cross set on fire on a lawn is a distinct, racist symbol of the Ku Klux Klan, even though the original cross lacks racist implications.
As well, a Pentagram is seen by Christians as a pagan, and hence satanic, symbol. Whereas in paganism, it is seen as a symbol of the Holy Feminine; their way of worshiping the Earth and the sanctity of women.
Source: Wikipedia
