(stand for something) if a letter, an abbreviation, or a symbol stands for something, that is what it means or represents
The lettersERMstand for Exchange-Rate Mechanism.
Synonyms and related words
To be a sign or symbol of something
signify
stand for
symbolize
2
usually in negatives(stand for something) to be willing to accept something that someone does
No one makes a fool of me. I won’t stand for it!
Synonyms and related words
Willingness and to be willing
will
volition
volunteer
3
(stand for something) if someone stands for a particular principle, they believe that principle is important
I hate them and everything they stand for.
Synonyms and related words
To support an idea, plan or person
support
back
get behind
4
(stand for something) Britishto try to get chosen in an election for a particular position or as a member of a particular institution. In American English, you say that someone runs for office
Malcolm McLaren stood for Mayor of London in 2000.
She is intending to stand for parliament.
Synonyms and related words
To be a candidate or winner in an election
campaign
canvass
run
stand for
phrasal verb transitive
Other entries for this word
stand up forphrasal verb
stand trial (for something)phrase
stand surety (for someone)phrase
Word Forms
present tense
I/you/we/they
stand for
he/she/it
stands for
present participle
standing for
past tense
stood for
past participle
stood for
DEFINITIONS4
1
(stand for something) if a letter, an abbreviation, or a symbol stands for something, that is what it means or represents
The letters ER stand for emergencyroom.
Synonyms and related words
To be a sign or symbol of something
signify
indicate
stand for
2
(stand for something) if someone stands for a particular principle, they believe that principle is important
I hate them and everything they stand for.
Synonyms and related words
To support an idea, plan or person
support
back
get behind
3
usually in negatives(stand for something) to be willing to accept something that someone does
No one makes a fool of me. I won’t stand for it!
Synonyms and related words
Willingness and to be willing
will
volition
volunteer
4
(stand for something) Britishto try to get chosen in an election for a particular position or as a member of a particular institution