mean vs symbolize

mean is a noun but symbolize is not a noun.

As verbs, symbolize is a hyponym of mean; that is, symbolize is a word with a more specific, narrower meaning than mean:

Other hyponyms of mean include stand for, represent, typify, symbolise, signify, import, spell, aim, get, aim, drive.

mean (noun)	symbolize (noun)
an average of n numbers computed by adding some function of the numbers and dividing by some function of n

mean (adjective)	symbolize (adjective)
approximating the statistical norm or average or expected value
characterized by malice
having or showing an ignoble lack of honor or morality
marked by poverty befitting a beggar
(used of persons or behavior) characterized by or indicative of lack of generosity
(used of sums of money) so small in amount as to deserve contempt
of no value or worth
very good; of the highest quality

mean (verb)	symbolize (verb)
mean or intend to express or convey	express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol
have as a logical consequence	represent or identify by using a symbol; use symbols
denote or connote
have in mind as a purpose
have a specified degree of importance
intend to refer to
destine or designate for a certain purpose