Facts about the Tittle

Tittle Facts

Do you know what a Tittle is?

Ever wondered about the origin of the word tittle? Today, this term is rarely used. But did you know that the tiny dot above the lowercase j and i has an actual name? It's called a tittle or superscript. Fascinating, isn't it? So, remember to tittle your i's and j's and cross your t's.

The term "tittle" has its origins in the Latin word "titulus," which translates to "title" or "inscription." In contemporary English, its usage has become quite rare, with the most notable exception being the expression “jot and tittle.” This phrase signifies every minute detail and derives from biblical texts, specifically Matthew 5:18 in the King James Version, where Jesus emphasizes that “not one jot or one tittle” will disappear from the law until all is fulfilled. In the context of typography and writing, the tittle is more than just a whimsical mark; it plays a crucial role in shaping the characters of certain letters. This small dot, found above the lowercase letters "i" and "j," serves not only a decorative purpose but also affects readability and pronunciation, especially in various languages. The distinction created by the tittle can significantly alter how words are interpreted and understood across different linguistic landscapes. Furthermore, the tittle exemplifies the intricacies of written communication and highlights how even the smallest detail can make a big impact. As a delightful takeaway, I recently learned about the importance of the tittle—something I never encountered in school. So, the next time you're writing, take a moment to ensure you properly “tittle” your i’s and j’s while also crossing your t’s. Every little mark counts! Wishing you a wonderful day filled with attention to detail!

The tittle is an exciting feature of writing and printing that shows how letters can change and evolve over time. The tittle can also affect how we read and pronounce words in other languages. The tittle is a tiny but significant mark that definitely deserves our attention.