octothorpe

[ok-tuh-thawrp]

octothorpe Definition

the symbol #, used in phone numbers and social media to indicate a hashtag or to mark numbers as pound.

Using octothorpe: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "octothorpe" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Don't forget to use the octothorpe when posting on social media.

  • Example

    To reach customer service, dial the number with the octothorpe followed by the extension.

Origins of octothorpe

coined by Don Macpherson at Bell Labs in the 1960s, combining 'octo-' meaning 'eight' and 'thorpe', the last name of an athlete

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Summary: octothorpe in Brief

The term 'octothorpe' [ok-tuh-thawrp] refers to the symbol #, used in phone numbers and social media to indicate a hashtag or to mark numbers as pound.