punctuation
noun
punc·tu·a·tion
ˌpəŋk-chə-ˈwā-shən 
1
: the act of punctuating : the state of being punctuated
2
: the act or practice of inserting standardized marks or signs in written matter to clarify the meaning and separate structural units
also
: a system of punctuation
3
: something that contrasts or accentuates
Examples of punctuation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Scripts for individual scenes often weren’t completed until hours before they were filmed — with actors still expected to be precise with David’s distinct language, and even punctuation, despite the lack of prep time.
—
Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 26 May 2025
Brown’s duel with deGrom was the perfect punctuation to a prolific calendar year.
—Chandler Rome, New York Times, 16 May 2025
Plus, the fabulous Vichy water shower in the retreat was a nice punctuation.
—Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 4 May 2025
Their passion radiated from their words – and their lively punctuation.
—Danny Heitman, Christian Science Monitor, 2 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for punctuation
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Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 26 May 2025
Brown’s duel with deGrom was the perfect punctuation to a prolific calendar year.
—Chandler Rome, New York Times, 16 May 2025
Plus, the fabulous Vichy water shower in the retreat was a nice punctuation.
—Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 4 May 2025
Their passion radiated from their words – and their lively punctuation.
—Danny Heitman, Christian Science Monitor, 2 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for punctuation
Cite this Entry
“Punctuation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punctuation. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
punctuation
noun
punc·tu·a·tion
ˌpəŋ(k)-chə-ˈwā-shən
: the act, practice, or system of inserting punctuation marks in written matter to make the meaning clear and separate parts (as clauses or sentences)
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