asterisk
Asterisk (noun) means the star-shaped symbol (*) used in writing to mark a footnote, show an omission, or flag something as an exception. Example: “The price came with an asterisk pointing to the terms and conditions.”
How to Use Asterisk
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe little star symbol (*) used to flag a footnote, exception, or qualification.
In sports and record-keeping, "put an asterisk on it" figuratively means to cast doubt on an achievement (e.g., because of doping or unusual circumstances) — not just a literal typographic mark.
Word Forms
asterisked past tense, asterisks plural, asterisks singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The price came with an _____ pointing to the terms and conditions.
Etymology
From Late Latin asteriscus, "little star," from Greek asterískos, a diminutive of astḗr ("star").
Synonyms
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does “asterisk” mean?
The word “asterisk” means the star-shaped symbol (*) used in writing to mark a footnote, show an omission, or flag something as an exception. In plain terms, the little star symbol (*) used to flag a footnote, exception, or qualification.
How do you pronounce “asterisk”?
“Asterisk” is pronounced AS-tuh-rihsk (/ˈæstəˌɹɪsk/ in IPA).
How do you use “asterisk” in a sentence?
Here is “asterisk” used in a sentence: “The price came with an asterisk pointing to the terms and conditions.”
What part of speech is “asterisk”?
Depending on how it is used, “asterisk” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “asterisk” come from?
The word “asterisk” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin asteriscus, "little star," from Greek asterískos, a diminutive of astḗr ("star").
How many meanings does “asterisk” have?
“Asterisk” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the star-shaped symbol (*) used in writing to mark a footnote, show an omission, or flag something as an exception.