What does virgulate mean?
The verb virgulate refers to the act of marking or separating something with a virgule or oblique stroke. This can be done in writing or printing, and is often used to make lists or text easier to read. The term is derived from the word 'virgule', which is a type of punctuation mark. In modern usage, virgulate is a somewhat formal or technical term, and is not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, it can be useful in certain contexts, such as in editing or typesetting.
verbTo mark or separate with a virgule or oblique stroke, especially in writing or printing.
- 1. To mark or separate with a virgule or oblique stroke.
"The editor virgulated the list of names to make it easier to read."
"The editor virgulated the list of names to make it easier to read."
"The typesetter virgulated the text to create a clear and readable layout."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of virgulate
The word virgulate is derived from the Latin word 'virgula', which means 'little rod' or 'stick'. This refers to the shape of the virgule punctuation mark, which is a short, diagonal stroke. The term has been used in English since the 17th century, and has been used in various contexts, including writing, printing, and editing.
How virgulate is actually used
In formal or technical writing, virgulate is often used to refer to the act of marking or separating text with a virgule or oblique stroke. However, in everyday conversation, it is not commonly used and may be considered somewhat formal or pretentious.