What is the dot over an i or j called?

That tiny dot above a lowercase i or j has a name: it is a tittle. The term is rare in everyday conversation, but it has been part of English for centuries.

What does tittle mean?

A tittle is a small distinguishing mark, especially the dot above i or j. The word can also refer more generally to a tiny mark or detail. It comes through Latin and Old French from a word connected with a written sign or inscription.

Jot and tittle

You may encounter it in the expression every jot and tittle, meaning every smallest detail. A jot is also something very small, so the phrase deliberately pairs two minute things.

Nederlandse uitleg

In het Nederlands: het puntje boven een kleine i of j heet in het Engels een tittle. Het woord kan ook een heel klein teken of detail betekenen.

Try it yourself

Look at the words English Juf. How many tittles can you find? There is one above the i in English and none above the capital J.

Source: Merriam-Webster. Featured photograph by Brett Jordan on Unsplash.