subscript
SUB-skript
/ˈsʌbskrɪpt/
A character (such as a number or letter) written or printed below the line.
Commonly used in chemical formulas (like the 2 in H₂O).
The story behind the word. From 'sub-' (below) and 'scriptum' (written). It describes text that 'sits below' the standard line of writing.
Word relationships
- superscript: Superscript is above the line; subscript is below.
Commonly confused with
- superscript: Sub = Below (like a Submarine); Super = Above.
Collocations
- subscript character
- chemical subscript
- subscript notation
Example sentences
- "In the formula for water, the subscript two indicates that there are two hydrogen atoms." Chemistry
- "The designer adjusted the subscript to make the chemical symbols easier to read." Typography
Memory hook
A SUBmarine goes BELOW. Subscript is BELOW. Written below the line.
When not to use
Don't confuse with 'superscript', which is above the line.
Fun facts
- Subscripts are also used in computer science to indicate the index of an element in an array.
Related words
Explore more words
subtext, subliminal, subconscious, subordinate, submerge, inscribe
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