Definition

A symbol used to represent a number or to indicate a hashtag, often seen in social media and programming contexts.

Example

Please use the octothorpe to indicate the number of items in your list.

Conversation

Hey, do you know what the symbol # is called?

Yeah, it's often referred to as an octothorpe!

That's such a funny name for it!

I know, right? It's a bit quirky, just like the symbol itself.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Octothorpe is formed from "octo-" (meaning eight) and "thorpe" (from Old English *þorp*, meaning village). The term originally referred to the eight points of a telephone pole, and the addition of "thorpe" is often humorously attributed to a myth about a runner named Jim Thorpe, although the exact origin of the second part is debated.

Memory Tip

Think of 'eight' ('octo-') points on a telephone pole, and remember that 'thorpe' relates to a village, which helps you connect the word to its unique meaning.

Visually Confused Words