question mark

American  

[kwes-chuhn mahrk] / ˈkwɛs tʃən ˌmɑrk /

noun

1. Also called interrogation point.  Also called interrogation mark.  a punctuation mark indicating a question: usually, as in English, the mark (?) placed after a question.

2. something unanswered or unknown.

   His identity is still a question mark to most of us.

3. an anglewing butterfly, Polygonia interrogationis, having a silver marking that resembles a question mark on the underside of each hindwing.

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question mark British  

noun

1. the punctuation mark ? , used at the end of questions and in other contexts where doubt or ignorance is implied

2. this mark used for any other purpose, as to draw attention to a possible mistake, as in a chess commentary

3. an element of doubt or uncertainty

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question mark Cultural  

1. A punctuation mark (?) that follows a direct question: “Is Ralph really seven feet tall?”

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Etymology

Origin of question mark

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Until now, the prime minster and his allies insisted he would not walk away if one was held but there has been a big question mark over what he would actually do.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

While Venezuela is still a question mark, Chevron has been in the region for years, which could give it an advantage once the nation begins to open up more broadly to foreign investment.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

A question mark hovers over this $30,000 offer.

From MarketWatch • May 16, 2026

“There’s just a big question mark about where gasoline is going to be pulling in from next,” said Smith.

From Los Angeles Times • May 3, 2026

Seeing the question mark on Papa’s face, Grandpa reached down and shook my daddy’s hand.

From "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns

Related Words

• conundrum
• puzzle