virgule etymology

Etymology

The word "virgule" is derived from the Latin word "virgula," which means "small rod" or "twig." It was originally used to refer to a short, vertical stroke used in writing and printing.

Meaning

In modern usage, a virgule is a punctuation mark that serves various functions, including:

  • Separator: To separate items in a list or series
  • Alternative: To indicate a choice or alternative
  • Parenthetical expression: To set off additional information or an aside
  • Time range: To indicate a period of time

Origin

The earliest known use of the term "virgula" in English dates back to the 15th century. However, the use of a vertical stroke as a punctuation mark has been traced back to ancient times.

In Greek and Latin manuscripts, a small, vertical stroke called a "paragraphos" was used to indicate the beginning of a new paragraph or subject. This mark was later adopted by scribes in the Middle Ages to separate sections of text.

Over time, the paragraphos evolved into a more stylized form, which we now know as the virgule. It became a common punctuation mark in printed books and manuscripts during the Renaissance and has continued to be used to this day.

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