÷

A mathematical symbol used for division. First used in 1659 in Teutsche Algebra by Johann Rahn, or Rhonius.

Ob"e*lus (?), n.; pl. Obeli (#). [L., fr. Gr. , prop., a spit.] (Print.)

A mark [thus —, or ÷]; -- so called as resembling a needle. In old MSS. or editions of the classics, it marks suspected passages or readings.

 

© Webster 1913.

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