asterisk

English

/ˈæstəɹɪsk/

noun
Definitions
  • The symbol *.
  • Something in the shape of or resembling the asterisk symbol.
  • (sports) A blemish in an otherwise outstanding achievement.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin asteriscus derived from Ancient Greek ἀστερίσκος (asterisk, a little star, used in manuscripts to mark passages, little star).

Origin

Ancient Greek

ἀστερίσκος

Gloss

asterisk, a little star, used in manuscripts to mark passages, little star

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms