Definition

1. Noun:

   • A small star-shaped symbol (*) used in writing and printing to indicate a footnote, omission, or other special reference.

2. Verb:

   • To mark something with an asterisk (*).

Usage

• Noun: The asterisk is used to direct a reader's attention to additional information, often found at the bottom of a page or document.
• Verb: To asterisk a word or sentence means to place the * symbol next to it, typically to annotate it.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Please see the footnote marked with an asterisk.
  • An asterisk next to a name on the list indicates a new member.
• Verb:
  • The editor will asterisk the technical terms that are defined in the glossary.
  • Linguists often asterisk example sentences that are grammatically incorrect.

Advanced Usage

• Conventional Use: In academic writing, an asterisk is commonly used for the first footnote on a page, with subsequent notes using other symbols (e.g., †, ‡).
• Computing & Search: In computing and online searches, the asterisk often serves as a wildcard character, representing any number of unknown characters.
• Sports & Records: In sports statistics, an asterisk is sometimes used to denote a record or achievement that is qualified or considered unofficial due to special circumstances.

Variants and Related Words

• Asterisked (adjective or past participle): Marked with an asterisk.
  • The asterisked items require special attention.
• Asterism (noun): A rarely used term for a group of three asterisks (⁂) used to draw attention to a passage or to indicate a minor break in text. This is a distinct symbol, not a variant of the single asterisk.

Synonyms

• Star (noun, informal): Often used interchangeably with "asterisk" in casual contexts.
  • Put a star next to the important items.
• Reference mark (noun): A more general term for symbols like the asterisk, dagger (†), or double dagger (‡) used for footnotes.

Related Phrases

• To be asterisked: The passive form of the verb, meaning something has been marked with an asterisk.
  • All direct quotations must be asterisked for verification.

Idioms

• An asterisk on a record: An idiom meaning a qualification or blemish on an otherwise clean reputation or achievement.
  • The doping scandal put an asterisk on the athlete's entire career.

Noun

1. a star-shaped character * used in printing

Verb

1. mark with an asterisk
   • Linguists star unacceptable sentences