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Obelus: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Obelus noun. The division sign ÷, or a dagger-shaped mark used to flag a doubtful passage or a footnote.
How to say it
OB-ih-lus/ˈɒbɪləs/
3 syllables, stressed on the first (OB).
Obelus in a sentence
Most calculators still print an obelus on the divide key.
In old manuscripts a scribe drew an obelus beside lines he suspected someone had added later.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- division sign
- dagger
Where obelus comes from
From Greek obelos, a roasting spit.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
In old manuscripts a scribe drew an _____ beside lines he suspected someone had added later.
- zarf
- petrichor
- obelus
Show the answer
obelus: In old manuscripts a scribe drew an obelus beside lines he suspected someone had added later.