asterisk - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
asterisk Word Meanings
- A symbol (*) used to indicate a footnote.
- A symbol for multiplication in mathematics.
- A placeholder or wildcard in computing.
asterisk Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
asterisk Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈæstərɪsk/
US
/ˈæstərɪsk/
asterisk Word Etymology
Asterisk consists of 'aster-' from Greek 'asteriskos' meaning 'little star', with the suffix '-isk' indicating smallness. Originating from Greek to Latin, moved to Old French, and into Middle English in the 14th century. Imagine a tiny star shining brightly in the night sky, helping you find notes in a book.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
An asterisk is a tiny star-shaped symbol with flexible uses across writing, math, and computing. In English, it is most commonly seen to indicate a footnote or endnote, guiding readers to extra information at the bottom of a page. It also stands for multiplication in mathematics, though the x symbol is more common in casual writing. In computing, an asterisk often acts as a placeholder or wildcard, representing one or more characters. The word comes from Greek asteriskos meaning a small star, passed into Latin and Old French before entering Middle English in the 14th century. This compact symbol packs a surprising range of functions in different domains.
Usage Reminders
- - Don’t confuse the asterisk with the multiplication sign ×; in casual text, * is common in computing.
- - Remember it often points to a footnote.
- - Use clearly: footnotes, wildcard, and multiplication contexts are different.
- - In programming, an asterisk can mean repetition or match multiple characters.
- - Look for the legend or glossary if you’re unsure what the asterisk refers to.
- - Keep an eye on formatting: footnotes and in-text asterisks have different placements.
Common Misconceptions
- The asterisk is only a footnote marker and has no other use.
- In math, the asterisk and the times symbol × are the same thing in all contexts.
- The asterisk cannot be a wildcard in computing.
- Footnotes are always required; you can’t have footnotes without an asterisk.
- The asterisk is always blue or a decorative symbol in all fonts.
Thinking Differences
In English, asterisk usage is varied but highly standardized around footnotes, multiplication, and wildcards; learners often think of it only as a footnote symbol and miss its computing uses.
Learning Tips
- Link asterisk to footnotes clearly in writing.
- Remember its wild-card use in computing.
- Distinguish between multiplication and the asterisk in math.
- Watch for asterisks in textbooks and online articles.
- Practice recognizing context: footnotes, wildcards, or multiplication.
- Check glossary when in doubt about symbol meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'asterisk'?
A.A type of flower
B.A kind of animal
C.A symbol used to indicate a footnote or omission
D.An action of writing
Step 2: Usage
Choose a sentence that uses 'asterisk' correctly.
A.He decided to run an asterisk marathon.
B.She wore an asterisk for good luck.
C.The asterisk on the page indicated a reference.
D.The teacher asked everyone to asterisk their notes.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'asterisk'?
A.Indicator
B.Marker
C.Star
D.Footnote
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'asterisk'?
A.Period
B.Letter
C.Symbol
D.Glyph
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where this symbol is used?
A.The teacher explained how to use the asterisk in citations.
B.You should add notes to your phone when necessary.
C.A form requires you to mark errors clearly.
D.Many people like to collect various symbols.
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