circumflex

/ˌsɜːrmˈfleks/ or /ˌsɜːrmˈflɛks/

Definitions

1. noun

A symbol (^) placed above a letter in written languages, used to indicate a change in pitch or a stress mark in phonetic transcriptions, or to denote a circumflex accent in written forms of certain languages.

“The phonetic transcription of the word ‘café’ includes a circumflex symbol (^) to indicate the correct pronunciation.”

2. verb

To place or mark a circumflex symbol above a letter or word.

“The editor circumflexed the title to make it more readable.”

3. adjective

Relating to or characterized by a circumflex accent or symbol.

“The circumflex font was used to display the foreign text correctly.”

4. noun

A circumflex-shaped or curved shape, especially in architecture or design.

“The architect used a circumflex motif in the building’s design.”

Synonyms

  • caret
  • stress mark

Antonyms

  • macron
  • straight accent