* Asterisk
Also called: star, splat. An asterisk marks a note at the bottom of a page, and on computers it means multiply.
How to type *
Hold Shift with your left pinky, then press the 8 key with your right middle finger.
Meaning and fun facts
Asterisk comes from the Greek word for "little star." People often mispronounce it "asterix" (that is a comic book hero!).
Common uses
- Multiplication in calculators and code: 3 * 4
- Footnotes: *see below
- Wildcard searches
- Required form fields
Fun example: 3 * 4 = 12
Typing tip
The asterisk is Shift + 8. On computers it also means multiply, which is why calculators and spreadsheets use 3*4 instead of the × sign.
* at a glance
| Keyboard (Windows, Mac, Chromebook) | Shift + 8 |
|---|---|
| Phone or tablet | On an iPhone, tap 123 and then #+= to see it. On Android (Gboard), tap ?123 and then =\< if it is not on the first page. |
| Windows Alt code | Alt + 42 (hold Alt, type the number on the number pad) |
| Unicode | U+002A |
| HTML code | * |
Quick practice drill
Type the examples below. The keyboard shows which finger and Shift key to use.
Want more? Practice this reach in Lesson 26: Numbers 6 to 0, or warm up with typing practice and Falling Words.
Related symbols
See all symbols in Keyboard Characters and Meanings.
FAQ
What is the * symbol called?
* is called the asterisk. It is also called star, splat.
How do you type asterisk on a keyboard?
Hold Shift with your left pinky, then press the 8 key with your right middle finger.
What does * mean?
An asterisk marks a note at the bottom of a page, and on computers it means multiply.