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

Addressing the other big question mark—what happens when Don retires—Sallie says she believes the best path forward is to lease the land to an outside, trusted farmer.

From The Wall Street Journal

With question marks removed over his own future, Tuchel will soon have to navigate the recurring issues his predecessors have faced leading England into major tournaments.

From BBC

It is the latest sign of the growing cooperation between Rome and Berlin, which is putting a question mark on the traditional France-Germany axis.

From Barron's

He left after massive career highs of 14 wins, over 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns, but still with question marks after a play-off capitulation against the Rams.

From BBC

He came into the tournament courted by Newcastle Red Bulls and with question marks over his commitment to the cause.

From BBC

Related Words

• conundrum
• puzzle