WordGarden.iobackslash
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /bˈækslæʃ/
US
- /ˈbækˌslæʃ/
Meanings
Noun
the symbol \ used in writing or notation as a slash that leans backward
the \ character used in computing, especially as an escape character or path separator
Beyond the definition
This slanted punctuation mark is mainly a technical character used in computing. It is often confused with the forward slash (/), but you can spot it quickly by the direction it tilts. In Windows file paths it separates folders and drives—so C:\Work\Invoice.pdf tells the system to follow the Work directory and then open Invoice.pdf. In many programming languages, the same mark is used as an escape marker, meaning the character that follows is interpreted differently, such as producing a special effect instead of being read as ordinary text.
This symbol () is a modern punctuation-style character that became essential in computing. While the forward slash appears in writing, web addresses, and many general contexts, this character is most recognizable in technical notation. In Windows file systems, it is the standard path separator, so strings like C:\Users\Name\Downloads show clear directory levels from root to subfolder. That role makes it central to file organization, scripting, and software configuration.
Its second major role is as an escape indicator in code, data files, and command lines. In languages such as Python, C++, Java, and JavaScript, it can signal a newline with \n, embed a quote with \", or escape other characters that would otherwise be treated as operators. The same idea appears in regular expressions, where it suppresses the special meaning of a symbol so that symbol is treated as literal text. Because it alters interpretation, this small slanted mark acts as a precise control mechanism for text and patterns.
Even outside programming, you can see it in markup systems, file naming conventions, and environment configuration, where clear escaping or special formatting is required. It is rare in everyday handwriting, yet ubiquitous in digital workflows, where it quietly keeps structure and meaning from becoming ambiguous.
Examples
- 1
Windows paths
The file path should use backslashes, like `C:\Users\Maya\Documents`.
- 2
Command line
I typed a slash instead of a backslash, and the command didn't work.
- 3
Text escaping
In this program, you need two backslashes to show one in the final text.
- Patterntwo backslashes to show one
the first backslash changes how the second one is read
See also
Similar
- reverse solidus
- backward slash
Shades of meaning
- escape character
- path separator
Contrast
- forward slash
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- backslash character
- escaped with a backslash
- backslash in a file path
Explore
- escape sequence
- punctuation mark
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- backslash