The Symbol's Journey: From Octothorpe to Hashtag

When we discuss the various names associated with the symbol #35; (number sign, hash, or pound sign), it serves as an excellent example of how a single piece of punctuation can have a rich and varied background depending on its context, usage, and cultural influences.

History and Context of the Symbol

In most modern contexts, the symbol is commonly known as the hash, number sign, or pound sign. This versatile symbol has been used for a wide variety of purposes throughout history, including the designation of ordinal numbers and as a ligatured abbreviation for pounds avoirdupois.

Regional and Contextual Variations

The term used for the symbol can vary significantly depending on the region and context in which it's being used. For instance, users on Twitter and certain computer programming applications refer to it as a hashtag. This term originates from the practice on social media platforms of using the symbol to categorize posts, making it easier for users to find and follow specific topics or discussions.

Past Usage and Name Origins

In the 20th century, the term Octothorpe was commonly used in the United States, specifically by telephone companies. ATT, the then-dominant telecommunications company, requested that the symbol be called an Octothorpe. This unusual term likely arose because the symbol has eight facets, hence the name 'octoro' (octo meaning eight) combined with 'thorpe' (a term traditionally used to refer to a village).

Alternative Names and Meanings

Interestingly, the symbol is also known as the sharp symbol in Western music notation, where it is used to indicate that a note should be raised by a semitone. Some users in different contexts might call it a tic-tac-toe symbol, which can help in clear communication, although it isn't widely recognized.

Contrary to some usage, it is important to distinguish between the hashtag (used on platforms like Twitter) and the sharp symbol or Octothorpe. The hashtag is a specific usage on social media, while the sharp symbol has a distinct and historical usage in music notation.

Conclusion

The symbol #35; has a fascinating evolution, from the functional use of ligatures in historical contexts to its modern usage in social media and music notation. Its varied names across different contexts reflect the symbol's adaptability and cultural significance. Whether you refer to it as a hashtag, Octothorpe, pound sign, or any of the other names mentioned, the symbol remains a powerful tool in communication and categorization.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, you may want to explore the Wikipedia page on the number sign or related articles on World Wide Words for a deeper dive into the history and cultural significance of the symbol.

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