noun
circumflex
SUR-kuhm-fleks
Circumflex (noun) means a diacritical mark (ˆ) placed over a vowel, and in some languages a consonant, to change how it is pronounced. Example: “French uses a circumflex in words such as forêt.”
noun
1
A diacritical mark (ˆ) placed over a vowel, and in some languages a consonant, to change how it is pronounced.
"French uses a circumflex in words such as forêt."
"You can type a circumflex on most keyboards with a shortcut."
"The circumflex on the o tells you how to read the word."
How to use circumflex
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe little hat-shaped mark that sits over a letter.
When to use it
It is a standard term in writing, typography and language teaching.
Memory tip
Say the name as a noun for the mark, for example a circumflex, and as a verb only in specialist writing.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
circumflex accent
a circumflex over the e
vowel with a circumflex
add a circumflex
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Fill the gap
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French uses a _____ in words such as forêt.
Etymology
English borrowed the word from Latin circumflexus, meaning bent about. The Latin term was itself a calque of an Ancient Greek word meaning drawn around.
Synonyms
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circumflex accent
Frequently asked questions
What is a circumflex?
It is a diacritical mark shaped like a small caret (ˆ) that sits above a letter. It changes how the letter is pronounced.
What does circumflex mean in Latin?
The Latin source, circumflexus, means bent about.
Is a circumflex the same as a circumflex accent?
Yes, circumflex accent is another name for the same mark.
What is the meaning of circumflex?
"circumflex" (noun) means a diacritical mark (ˆ) placed over a vowel, and in some languages a consonant, to change how it is pronounced.
