plus sign

American  

noun

Arithmetic.

1. the symbol (+) indicating summation or a positive quality.

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plus sign British  

noun

1. the symbol +, indicating addition or positive quantity

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Etymology

Origin of plus sign

First recorded in 1645–55

Example Sentences

The new streaming service from CNN, which will launch this fall, will also simply be called CNN without a plus sign or any other designation that separates it from the core network.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2025

There is some overlap between the groups; intersex people are included in the plus sign in LGBTQ+, and some intersex people also identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer.

From Washington Times • Jul. 27, 2023

There is some overlap between the groups; intersex people are included in the plus sign in the LGBTQ+ acronym, and some intersex people also identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 26, 2023

Here’s how to start using a template: Tap the plus sign at the bottom of the screen to start a new video.

From The Verge • Aug. 9, 2022

"Learn to make a plus sign so that both the vertical and horizontal strokes are the same thickness. That is your second lesson. You can practice as soon as you buy your materials."

From "The View From Saturday" by E.L. Konigsburg