An asterisk is a star-shaped symbol (*) that has a few uses in writing. It is most commonly used to signal a footnote, but it is sometimes also used to clarify a statement or to censor inappropriate language.
- Why is * called an asterisk?
- What does a * mean after a word?
- What is * used for in texting?
- Is it asterisk or Asterix?
Why is * called an asterisk?
The asterisk (/ˈæst(ə)rɪsk/ *), from Late Latin asteriscus, from Ancient Greek ἀστερίσκος, asteriskos, "little star", is a typographical symbol. It is so called because it resembles a conventional image of a heraldic star.
What does a * mean after a word?
asterisk in British English
(ˈæstərɪsk ) noun. 1. a star-shaped character (*) used in printing or writing to indicate a cross-reference to a footnote, an omission, etc. 2.
What is * used for in texting?
Spelling Correction
An asterisk is used in text messaging to indicate a correction to a message that has just been sent. For example: Jo: Have to see the doctor tomorrow, for an anal exam. Jo: *annual!!!
Is it asterisk or Asterix?
In 2014, the Usage Panel overwhelmingly preferred the traditional pronunciation for asterisk, although 24 percent found the asterix pronunciation acceptable and 19 percent found asterick acceptable. A mere 7 percent personally preferred the asterix pronunciation, and only 6 percent preferred the asterick one.