What does hyphening mean?
Hyphening means joining the elements of a compound word with hyphens, either as a general writing practice or as the action performed by a writer or typesetter. The custom is especially relevant in English because compounds may be open, closed, or hyphenated, and a hyphen can also clarify meaning or pronunciation. The noun is less common than hyphenation, while the verb form is usually expressed as hyphenating. Although the process applies throughout the English-speaking world, particular rules can vary between style guides and publishing traditions. Hyphening matters because apparently small decisions affect readability, dictionary consistency, and the visual identity of a text. It is therefore useful to writers, editors, typesetters, students, and anyone learning the conventions of English compounding.
The practice or process of joining the parts of a compound word with a hyphen, or an instance of doing so.
"The publisher revised its rules for hyphening after the style guide was updated."
Hyphenation is more common when referring to the overall writing convention.
To write or insert a hyphen between words or parts of words.
"She is hyphening the compound adjectives throughout the article."
As a verb form, hyphenating is more usual than hyphening.
Usually uncountable; it has no regular plural form.
"The guide explains the principles of hyphening clearly."
The small hyphen has a name inspired by the Greek word for “together,” reflecting its role in holding compound words together.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hyphening come from?
The word comes from English hyphen, which was borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin hyphen, in turn derived from Greek hyphein, meaning “to unite” or “to hold together.” The related English forms hyphenate and hyphenation were developed from the same root, with the latter recording the established practice of using hyphens in compound words. The form hyphening reflects the use of the verbal suffix -ing for the activity or process.
How hyphening is actually used
Hyphening is relatively uncommon as a noun beside the more familiar hyphenation. As a verb, hyphenating is more usual than hyphening, though both are accepted.
Easily confused with hyphening
Hyphening is the act of inserting or writing hyphens, whereas hyphenation is the established system or practice of doing so.