A national symbol is a manifestation of a nation or community, serving as a representation of their identity and values. National symbols may be not only applied to sovereign states but also nations and countries in a state of colonial or other forms of dependence, federal integration, or even ethnocultural communities that identify as a "nationality" despite lacking autonomy.

National symbols intend to unite individuals by creating visual, verbal, or iconic representations of the national people, values, goals, culture and/or history. These symbols are often rallied around as part of celebrations of patriotism and/or aspiring nationalism (such as independence, autonomy, and/or separation movements) and are designed to be inclusive and representative of all the people of the national community.

Some official national symbols like seals are insignias that not everybody is allowed to use.

In many ways, well-known landmarks in a country can also be seen as national symbols, as can traditional items of handicraft, folk costumes, natural monuments, national epics and national myths, as well as symbols used by national sports teams and their supporters.