A thing, event, or person that represents or stands for some idea or event. These also simultaneously retain their own literal meanings; a concrete object is used to stand for an abstract idea —e.g. the cross for Christianity.

The description you provided refers to a "symbol". A symbol is a mark, sign, or word that indicates, signifies, or is understood as representing an idea, object, or relationship. Symbols allow people to go beyond what is known or seen by creating linkages between otherwise very different concepts and experiences. All communication (and data processing) is achieved through the use of symbols. Symbols take the form of words, sounds, gestures, ideas, or visual images and are used to convey other ideas and beliefs. For example, a red octagon may be a symbol for "STOP". On a map, a blue line might represent a river. Numerals are symbols for numbers. Personal names are symbols representing individuals. A red rose or red color stands for love or romance. Symbols are used to enable understanding of the world in different ways and to promote communication of our thoughts and feelings.