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Definition of hyphen

hyphen

/ˈhaɪfən/
hy · phen
Plural:hyphens
•
Adjective:hyphenic
•
Past Simple:hyphened
•
Past Participle:hyphened
•
Present Participle:hyphening
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hyphen Lexical Profile

hyphen Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A punctuation mark (-) used to join words to indicate that they have a combined meaning or are linked in the grammar of a sentence, or to indicate the division of a word at the end of a line.

Example

"Remember to place a hyphen between the two words when they function together as a compound modifier before a noun."

• verb

1

To connect or divide words or syllables with a hyphen; to hyphenate.

Example

"Some style guides prefer to hyphen compound adjectives, while others leave them open."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for hyphen

Word Nuance & Usage

In typography, a hyphen (-) is shorter than an en dash (–) and an em dash (—), and is used specifically to join words or break syllables at the end of a line rather than to set off parenthetical clauses.

• Rhymes for hyphen

• Nearby Words

hyperventilate
hyperventilation
hypervigilant
hyphen
hyphenate
hyphenated
hyphenation

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century via Late Latin from Ancient Greek 'hypo-' (under) and 'hen' (one), literally meaning 'in one' or 'together'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hyphen. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hyphen
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