apostrophe
Translation
apostrophe
Examples
Use an apostrophe for contractions like 'don't'.
Use an apostrophe for contractions like 'don't'.
The cat's toy is on the floor.
The cat's toy is on the floor.
Grammar Patterns
((an apostrophe)) a punctuation mark (') The word 'it's' has an apostrophe.
Similar Words
Synonyms: none; See also: quotation mark, comma
Etymology
From Greek 'apostrophos' meaning 'turning away', as it marks an omission of a letter.
Memory Tips
Think of it as a little hook (') that either pulls letters together (as in 'don't') or shows ownership (as in 'the cat's toy').