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Glite Dictionary
➗ A division sign † A footnote mark 🗿 A stone pillar
obelus

obelus

9.9
A symbol like ÷ that shows division or marks a doubtful line
  • noun
  • /ˈoʊbələs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : obelisco
  • The editor placed an obelus next to the line to indicate it was questionable.

Examples

  • Many students first encounter the obelus when learning basic arithmetic operations.

  • In older math textbooks, the obelus is often used to show division between numbers.

  • The obelus indicates division.

  • Did you see the obelus in that complex equation?

  • In mathematics, the teacher explained that the obelus symbol indicates division, such as in the equation 6 ÷ 2.

  • The use of the obelus in this text marks a passage that needs further reference or verification.

  • When solving the equation, remember to use the obelus to denote the division operation clearly.

Synonyms

sign
vsobelus
45 4.8

A mark that shows if a number is positive or negative

is a specific mathematical mark used for division or to mark doubt
obelisk
vsobelus
  • Specialized
1 8.8

A small cross-shaped mark used after an asterisk to show a second footnote

is used to mark doubtful passages in text rather than footnote references

Surface Forms

obelus singular
obeli plural
obeli plural

Etymology

Obelus comes from the old Greek word obelos, meaning 'spit' or 'pointed stick', and it is the same root as obelisk. Ancient editors used a small pointed mark to 'point out' lines they thought were doubtful, and that mark later became the division sign and a mark for questionable text.