Bracket
/ˈbræk.ɪt/noun
A bracket is a supporting or enclosing device, or a pair of punctuation marks used to set off text.
Did you know?The word entered English from French, and its deeper trail likely runs back to a Germanic root for a forked or branched support—proof that even punctuation has a history of structure and containment.
Etymological Timeline
16th Century
French
braguette / bracket
“A small support, clasp, or brace”
16th Century
English
bracket
“A support projecting from a wall”
Later 16th Century
English
bracket
“A pair of marks used to enclose or insert text”
Modern English
English
bracket
“An enclosing punctuation mark or a structural support”