Interrobang

C1 8+
Pronunciation Definitions Examples Grammatical Forms Origin and Evolution

Pronunciation: /ˌɪn.təˈrɑː.bæŋ/

Definitions of interrobang

noun a punctuation mark (‽) that combines the functions of a question mark and an exclamation point, used to express a question in an excited or rhetorical manner

Example Sentences

A1 What is an interrobang?

A2 I saw an interrobang at the end of the sentence.

B1 The use of an interrobang can add emphasis to a question.

B2 Some people find the interrobang to be a clever punctuation mark.

C1 The interrobang is a non-standard punctuation mark that combines a question mark and an exclamation point.

C2 The interrobang is not commonly used in formal writing but can be seen in casual or creative contexts.

Examples of interrobang in a Sentence

formal The interrobang is a punctuation mark that combines a question mark and an exclamation point.

informal I love using the interrobang in my text messages to show excitement and curiosity‽

slang Did you see that photo of the interrobang tattoo on social media? It's wild!

figurative The interrobang in her eyes showed a mix of surprise and disbelief.

Grammatical Forms of interrobang

past tense

interrobanged

plural

interrobangs

comparative

more interrobang

superlative

most interrobang

present tense

interrobangs

future tense

will interrobang

perfect tense

have interrobanged

continuous tense

is interrobanging

singular

interrobang

positive degree

interrobang

infinitive

to interrobang

gerund

interrobanging

participle

interrobanged

Origin and Evolution of interrobang

First Known Use: 1962 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The word 'interrobang' is a combination of 'interrogation' and 'bang', representing the question mark and exclamation point, respectively.
Evolution of the word: The interrobang was first proposed by Martin K. Speckter in 1962 as a new punctuation mark to convey both a question and an exclamation simultaneously. While it has not been widely adopted in standard English usage, it is sometimes used informally in written communication.