backslash

Pluralbackslashes

Formsbackslashes, backslashing, backslashed

1. 1
   nouncountable

   The mark \, a short line that leans to the left, used a lot in computer file paths.

   Like a normal slash flipped to lean the other way.

   Type a backslash between the folder names to reach the file.

   On Windows, file paths use backslashes instead of forward slashes.

   Note
2. 2
   verbtransitive

   To put a backslash in front of a special character so the computer reads it as plain text.

   Like putting a note before a word that tells the computer to read it exactly, not as a command.

   Remember to backslash the quotation mark inside the string.

   The program backslashes any special symbol before saving the file.

   Similarescape

   Note
3. 3
   nounnonstandardcountable

   A wrong name for the forward slash /, used by people who mix up the two marks.

   Like calling left 'right' by mistake when giving directions.

   He read the address aloud as 'site dot com backslash news,' pointing to the forward slash on screen.

   Also, avoid submenus^([sic]) that can confuse the audience—if you're giving lengthy Web site addresses full of backslashes, shorten it so only the Web site's home page is given.

   2010, Frank Barnas, Ted WhiteHere, backslashes really means forward slashes, the / marks in web addresses.

   Note

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