Definition

1. Noun:
   • A symbol for a unit of currency: Specifically, the symbol (£) used to represent the pound sterling, the currency of the United Kingdom.
   • A symbol on a telephone keypad: The symbol (#), also commonly called the hash or number sign, found on telephones and computer keyboards.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Currency Symbol):

  • The price was listed as £50, using the pound sign.
  • When writing about British money, always include the pound sign before the amount.

• Noun (Telephone/Keyboard Symbol):

  • Please enter your PIN followed by the pound sign (#).
  • On social media, the pound sign is often used to create hashtags.

Advanced Usage

• In computing and programming: The "#" symbol is used in various programming languages for different purposes, such as denoting comments or preprocessor directives.

  • In Python, a line starting with a pound sign is a comment.

• In social media and digital communication: The "#" symbol is used to create hashtags, which categorize content.

  • The post used the pound sign to create the hashtag #TravelTips.

Variants and Related Words

• Hash sign (n): Another common name for the "#" symbol.

  • The instructions said to press the hash sign.

• Number sign (n): Another name for the "#" symbol, especially in North America.

  • The form required my account number followed by the number sign.

• Hashtag (n): A word or phrase preceded by a hash sign (#), used on social media.

  • The hashtag #EnglishLearning is popular on that platform.

Synonyms

• Sterling sign: Specifically for the currency symbol (£).
• Octothorpe: A technical term for the "#" symbol.

Related Phrases

• Pound key: Refers to the "#" key on a telephone.
  • To confirm, press the pound key.

Related Idioms

• To be worth a pound sign: An informal expression suggesting something is valuable or monetarily significant (primarily using the currency meaning).
  • That idea of yours is worth a pound sign; we should develop it.

Noun

1. a symbol for a unit of currency (especially for the pound sterling in Great Britain)