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Caret: meaning, definitions and examples

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caret

 

[ ˈkɛrɪt ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

writing symbol

A caret is a symbol used in writing and editing to indicate where something should be inserted into the text. It is usually represented as a small upward-facing triangle (^) or a similar shape. Carets are often seen in proofreading to show that there is an omission in the written material that needs correction. They can also be used in computer programming to denote power operations or suggest actions in textual contexts.

Synonyms

editing mark, insert symbol

Examples of usage

  • Please insert the missing word here ^.
  • The editor used a caret to signal additional information should be added.
  • In programming, the caret symbol may denote exponentiation.
  • Mark the text with a caret when you need to insert a comment.
Context #2 | Verb

text editing

To caret means to mark a position in text where an insertion is needed. This action is often performed by writers, proofreaders, and editors when refining documents. Careting ensures clear communication regarding where amendments or additional material should go in the written work.

Synonyms

insert, mark

Examples of usage

  • Don't forget to caret where I indicated.
  • She will caret the document for any missing phrases.
  • The teacher asked students to caret their essays.
  • He carеted the text to improve its clarity.

Translations

Translations of the word "caret" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caret

🇮🇳 केरेट

🇩🇪 Carets

🇮🇩 caret

🇺🇦 карет

🇵🇱 caret

🇯🇵 キャレット

🇫🇷 caret

🇪🇸 caret

🇹🇷 caret

🇰🇷 캐럿

🇸🇦 كاريت

🇨🇿 caret

🇸🇰 caret

🇨🇳 插入符号

🇸🇮 caret

🇮🇸 caret

🇰🇿 карет

🇬🇪 კარეტი

🇦🇿 caret

🇲🇽 caret

Word origin

The term 'caret' originates from the Latin word 'caret', which means 'it lacks' or 'there is lacking'. This term was adapted into English in the early 19th century, where it began to be associated specifically with the graphic symbol used in writing and editing. The use of the caret to indicate insertion points in text has been traced back to the practices of scribes and editors, who used various symbols to denote changes in the manuscript. The caret's upward-pointing design resembles the action of lifting or pointing to a specific area of text, furthering its utility in written communication. Its function has expanded into digital text editing, maintaining its relevance in modern writing and technical fields.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,868 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.