POUND SIGN Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "pound sign" refers to a symbol that consists of two horizontal strokes crossing two vertical strokes, creating a grid-like structure. Also known as the "number sign" or "hash symbol," it is represented by the symbol "#" on a typical computer keyboard.
Originally, the pound sign was used as a symbol for weight in the measurement system of the United Kingdom, representing "pound weight." However, its usage has evolved significantly over time. In modern contexts, the pound sign is predominantly used as a typographical marker to emphasize a word, phrase, or concept on social media platforms, especially Twitter, where it is known as a "hashtag." When combined with keywords, the pound sign forms a clickable link that enables users to find and contribute to specific topics or discussions.
Apart from its digital significance, the pound sign has found application in various fields. In music notation, it denotes sharp notes, while in programming languages, it may represent a macro or a preprocessor directive. Furthermore, in telephony, "pound" is the name given to the "#" symbol when used in conjunction with a telephone keypad, where it functions as a signaling key to navigate automated voice systems.
Overall, the pound sign is a versatile symbol that has transformed from a weight measurement indicator to a powerful tool in digital communication and symbolization in various fields.
Common Misspellings for POUND SIGN
- oound sign
- lound sign
- -ound sign
- 0ound sign
- piund sign
- pkund sign
- plund sign
- ppund sign
- p0und sign
- p9und sign
- poynd sign
- pohnd sign
- pojnd sign
- poind sign
- po8nd sign
- po7nd sign
- poubd sign
- poumd sign
- poujd sign
- pouhd sign
Etymology of POUND SIGN
The word "pound sign" is derived from the symbol itself, which is also known as the "hash sign" or the "number sign". Its origins trace back to its use in the late 14th century as a symbol for weight or quantity, derived from the Latin word "pondo", meaning "weight". The symbol eventually became associated with the British currency "pound sterling" and was commonly used on British typewriters and telephones. In the United States, it became widely known as the "number sign" due to its use in numbering systems. With the rise of social media and its use as a symbol to tag topics or groups, it has become commonly referred to as a "hashtag". Thus, the term "pound sign" relates to its association with currency and weight, rather than its current role as a symbol used on keyboards and in digital communication.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
