punctuation mark

noun

: any of various standardized marks or signs used in punctuation
punctuation mark table

Examples of punctuation mark in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Detection software has flagged parts of her papers with punctuation marks such as em dashes and semicolons. — Lily Altavena, Freep.com, 22 Dec. 2025 And that’s what made Franklin’s speech such a brilliant punctuation mark to the convention’s debate. — Michael Golden, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Feb. 2026 The fun of this drink starts, of course, with the name, which weighs in at 11 words (and one punctuation mark) and with which people tend to be both amused and bemused. — Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 17 Jan. 2026 Herman Miller’s cushy Comma dining chair takes after the punctuation mark with an upholstered seat that invites you to pause. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 22 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for punctuation mark

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of punctuation mark was in 1849

Rhymes for punctuation mark

See All Rhymes for punctuation mark

Browse Nearby Words

punctuational
punctuation mark
punctuative
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Cite this Entry

“Punctuation mark.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punctuation%20mark. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

punctuation mark

noun
: any of various marks or signs used in punctuation
punctuation mark table
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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