stand for

1.  Represent, symbolize, as in The stars and stripes stands for our country. [Early 1600s]
2.  Advocate, support, uphold, as in The National Writers Union stands for freedom of the press. [c. 1300] Also see stand up for.
3.  Put up with, tolerate. This usage is generally in a negative context, as in Mother will not stand for rude behavior. [Late 1800s] Also see hold still for.
4.  stand for something. Have some value or importance, as in She realized that appearances do stand for something. This usage dates from the mid-1800s but was preceded by stand for nothing, meaning "be worthless," dating from the late 1300s. Also see stand in for.

The verb has 4 meanings:

Meaning #1: express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol
  Synonyms: typify, symbolize, symbolise, represent

Meaning #2: denote or connote
  Synonyms: mean, intend, signify

Meaning #3: take the place of or be parallel or equivalent to
  Synonyms: represent, correspond

Meaning #4: tolerate or bear
  Synonym: hold still for