Which term refers to a thing that represents or stands for something else?

The term that refers to a thing that represents or stands for something else is "symbol." In literature and everyday language, symbols are objects, characters, figures, or colors used to represent abstract ideas or concepts. For example, a dove often symbolizes peace, while a red rose may symbolize love. This connection between the symbol and the idea it represents is what makes symbols powerful tools in communication, allowing for deeper meaning and understanding.

Other terms like allegory and metaphor share some aspects with the concept of symbolism but serve different purposes. An allegory is an entire narrative that conveys a broader moral or political meaning, where characters and events symbolize a deeper layer of meaning. A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly equates one thing to another, suggesting they are similar in a significant way, rather than simply representing one another. An allusion is a reference to another work or event, relying on the audience's familiarity with that reference to convey meaning.

The distinction of "symbol" as the correct term highlights its unique role in representing something beyond itself, appealing to our understanding and associations.