Asterisking - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

text annotation

Asterisking refers to the practice of marking text with an asterisk (*) as a way to indicate a special note, footnote, or to denote emphasis. This method is commonly used in writing to draw attention to particular sections of the text or to refer readers to additional information. Asterisking can also be used in digital communication for censorship purposes, such as replacing letters in vulgar words. Generally, it serves as a useful tool in both formal and informal writings to highlight important content.

Synonyms

highlighting, marking, noting.

Examples of usage

She asterisked the important dates for clarity.
The report included asterisked references for further reading.
In the email, he asterisked the sensitive information.
The teacher asterisked the key terms in the syllabus.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In literature, asterisks are often used to denote omitted text or a reference to footnotes, helping streamline complex arguments.
Prominent authors, like James Joyce, have used asterisks creatively in their works to indicate disruptions or breaks in narrative.
Asterisks are frequently employed in poetry and plays to signify annotations or clarifications that enhance reader engagement.

Technology

In programming, an asterisk can represent multiplication or act as a wildcard character in searches, enhancing coding efficiency.
In computing, it assigns functions, such as in regular expressions, making it essential for data processing and management.
Modern social media platforms often use asterisks for emphasis, allowing users to highlight important comments or corrections.

Education

Teachers use asterisks to mark corrections or significant comments in students' written assignments, aiding their learning process.
Asterisks play a vital role in academic papers to guide readers to sources or further notes, promoting transparency in research.
In standardized tests, asterisks indicate questions that require special attention or hold additional importance.

Pop Culture

In music notation, an asterisk can signify a footnote or specific instruction, enhancing the performance experience.
Certain video games use asterisks to denote special items or hidden features, encouraging exploration by players.
In fan communities, asterisks often highlight critical moments or in-game tips, fostering collaboration and shared knowledge.

Origin of 'asterisking'

Main points about word origin

The word 'asterisk' comes from the Greek word 'asteriskos', meaning 'little star', reflecting its star-like shape.
It was introduced into English in the late 15th century and was initially used primarily in scholarly texts.
The use of the asterisk for footnotes and other annotations became common in the 19th century, revolutionizing textual analysis.

The term 'asterisk' originates from the Greek word 'asteriskos', meaning 'little star'. This reflects the shape of the asterisk symbol (*), which resembles a star. The use of the asterisk in text can be traced back to ancient times when it was employed in manuscripts to indicate omissions or to mark footnotes. As printing technology advanced, the asterisk found its way into printed texts and typesetting. With the rise of digital communication, the asterisk has become a versatile symbol used in various contexts, such as programming languages to denote multiplication, in dictionaries to indicate pronunciation, and in social media for showcasing emphasis. Today, 'asterisking' is a common practice across various formats of writing and communication, symbolizing the enduring significance of this small but mighty symbol.

Asterisking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations