If you use social media, you probably know the ‘#’ sign or hashtag. This symbol has several names, including the number sign, pound sign, hash sign, and octothorpe. But where does it come from? How else is it used? And how should you use it in your writing? Let’s take a look.
The History of the Number Sign
The hash sign can be traced to a Roman unit of measure, the libra pondo (or ‘pound weight’). This was sometimes abbreviated to the symbol ‘℔’, which evolved into ‘#’ by the nineteenth century. By this point, it was widely known as a ‘number sign’ when used before a number:
Please answer question #2.
Please answer question number two.
And in the USA, it was also known as a ‘pound sign’. This is because it was used to indicate an imperial pound when placed after a number:
We need 2# of beef for the pie.
We need two pounds of beef for the pie.
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In Australia, however, it was better known as the ‘hash’ sign and only used to mean ‘number’. This is because we use ‘lb’ to abbreviate the unit of mass.
Modern Uses
Over the years, the hash sign has picked up several other uses, including:
- As a proofreading mark that indicates the need to insert a space.
- In writing music, as it looks similar to a sharp note but is easier to type.
- Inserting comments within code in various programming languages.
- As the notation ‘###’, which indicates the end of a press release.
- To create hashtags on various social media platforms.
This final use is probably the most common nowadays, as it allows people to quickly find posts on a specific subject or theme (e.g. #proofreading).
When to Use a Hash Sign in Your Writing
It would be unusual to need the hash or number sign in formal writing, such as an essay. However, as detailed above, this symbol has several uses in different contexts. Using the hash sign to replace the word ‘number’ is common in less formal writing, so it is fine to use it as long as:
- You’re certain the reader will understand how you’re using it.
- It doesn’t undermine the formality of the document.
If you want to be 100% sure you’re using this symbol correctly, though, it never hurts to have your writing proofread. We have expert editors ready to help, so why not submit a document today?