caret: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical, Formal, Academic
Quick answer
What does “caret” mean?
A proofreading symbol (^) inserted in a text to indicate where additional material should be inserted.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proofreading symbol (^) inserted in a text to indicate where additional material should be inserted.
The symbol is also used in mathematics and computing, notably in notation for exponentiation (e.g., x^2) and as a control character or operator in regular expressions and programming languages.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The pronunciation differs slightly (see IPA).
Connotations
None beyond its technical function.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both varieties, encountered primarily in publishing, editing, and technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “caret” in a Sentence
The caret indicates [where something should go].Insert a caret [between the words].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, might appear in formal document revision processes.
Academic
Used in the context of editing manuscripts, theses, and academic papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Common in publishing, editing, programming (exponentiation, regex), and mathematics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “caret”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “caret”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “caret”
- Misspelling as 'carrot' or 'carat'.
- Using it to mean 'cursor' in general computing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are homophones but have completely different origins. 'Caret' comes from Latin 'caret' meaning 'it is lacking'. 'Carrot' has a Greek origin via Latin and French.
On most keyboards, press Shift + 6 (above the letters).
A caret is specifically a proofreading symbol on paper or a text insertion point symbol in some digital text fields. A cursor is the general moving indicator on a computer screen (which can be an arrow, hand, or I-beam).
No, it is exclusively a noun in standard English. The action is described as 'inserting a caret' or 'using a caret'.
A proofreading symbol (^) inserted in a text to indicate where additional material should be inserted.
Caret is usually technical, formal, academic in register.
Caret: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkær.ət/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈker.ət/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
A CARET CARETS for missing text: it looks like a small, pointed roof (^) under which you can shelter the new words.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE SYMBOL IS A POINTER/INDICATOR (it points to a specific location for action).
Practice
Quiz
In which of these contexts are you LEAST likely to encounter the word 'caret'?