Why is the dog symbol on the keyboard called that? - briefly
The symbol often referred to as the "dog symbol" on the keyboard is officially known as the "at" symbol (@). This symbol is called "at" due to its resemblance to the word "at" in English, where it is used to denote a position or location, such as "at home" or "at work".
Why is the dog symbol on the keyboard called that? - in detail
The symbol often referred to as the "dog" on a keyboard is more formally known as the "at" symbol (@). This symbol has a rich history and its origins are deeply rooted in the evolution of communication technologies. The @ symbol's journey began in the 15th century when it was used in commercial bookkeeping in Italy. It was employed to denote units of measurement or to indicate the price per unit of a good. The symbol was a shorthand way to write "at the rate of" or "each at," which was particularly useful in mercantile documents.
As printing technology advanced, the @ symbol found its way into typewriters and eventually into computer keyboards. Its inclusion in keyboards was not initially driven by a specific need for the symbol in everyday typing but rather by the desire to include all possible symbols that might be useful in various professional and technical fields. The @ symbol's presence on keyboards became more significant with the advent of email in the 1970s. Ray Tomlinson, often credited with inventing email, chose the @ symbol to separate the user's name from the domain name in email addresses. This choice was practical because the @ symbol was unique and unlikely to appear in a user's name, making it an ideal delimiter.
The term "dog" as a colloquial name for the @ symbol is believed to have originated from the symbol's resemblance to a dog's head with ears perked up, particularly when viewed sideways. This whimsical interpretation has stuck in popular culture, leading to the informal use of "dog" to refer to the @ symbol. Despite its informal name, the @ symbol has become an integral part of modern communication, symbolizing the interconnected nature of the digital world.
The @ symbol's ubiquity in email addresses has made it one of the most recognizable symbols in the digital age. Its use has expanded beyond email to social media platforms, where it is used to mention or tag other users. This widespread use has further cemented the @ symbol's place in modern communication, making it an essential part of the digital lexicon. The @ symbol's journey from a commercial shorthand to a ubiquitous digital marker is a testament to its adaptability and utility in various communication formats. Its informal name, "dog," adds a touch of whimsy to its otherwise technical and functional identity.