Frequently Asked Questions
Symbols
Is there a name for the dot above the letters i and j?
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The dot is just called superscript dot. It was added to the letter i in the Middle Ages to distinguish the letter (in manuscripts) from adjacent vertical strokes in such letters as u, m, and n. J is a variant form of i which emerged at this time and subsequently became a separate letter.
Other questions in this section:Is there a name for the dot above the i?
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