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Asterisk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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asterisk

[ˈæs.tər.ɪsk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

symbol usage

An asterisk is a typographical symbol that resembles a star and is used in various contexts, such as to denote footnotes or omissions in text. It is commonly used in mathematics and programming to represent multiplication. In computing, an asterisk may also serve as a wildcard character, matching any sequence of characters in search operations. Its shape and versatility make it a frequently employed symbol in writing and technical fields.

Synonyms

footnote indicator, star, wildcard.

Examples of usage

  • Please refer to footnote * for more details.
  • You can use the asterisk in a search query to find all variations of a term.
  • In programming, the asterisk signifies a multiplication operation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Typography

  • It's commonly used in writing to indicate a footnote or to censor parts of words.
  • Different fonts have unique styles of asterisks, ranging from simple to elaborate, showing its versatility in design.

Mathematics

  • In math and programming, an asterisk often represents multiplication, making calculations easier to read.
  • In regular expressions, it acts as a wildcard symbol, representing zero or more instances of a character, which is crucial in coding.

Pop Culture

  • Asterisk has appeared in various media, such as video games and movies, often symbolizing something mysterious or intriguing.
  • It is also popular in internet slang, where it's used to correct or clarify previous statements (e.g., *correction).

Communication

  • In informal writing like texting, people use an asterisk to emphasize or clarify a message without changing the original text.
  • Its presence can indicate sarcasm or irony by adding a layer of meaning to the conversation.

Origin of 'asterisk'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'asteriskos', meaning 'little star', showing its star-like shape.
  • The symbol's first known use dates back to the 3rd century BC in Greek literature, where it served to denote footnotes or annotations.

The word 'asterisk' originates from the Greek word 'asteriskos', meaning 'little star'. The term was adopted into Middle English in the late 14th century through Latin. Historically, the asterisk has been used since ancient times for various purposes, including annotation, correction, and to denote special meanings in texts. Its star-like appearance led to its name, symbolizing its function as a marker or indicator. The asterisk has evolved in its usage, particularly in the digital age, where it serves crucial roles in programming languages and data manipulation, reflecting the changing nature of communication and technology.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,105, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.