National Ampersand Day &

Overview

National Ampersand Day, observed annually on September 8th, is a celebration of the unique typographical symbol '&'. This day encourages appreciation for the character that elegantly represents the word 'and', recognizing its long history and continued presence in language, typography, and design.

Origin and story

The ampersand is a ligature, meaning a combination of two or more letters into a single character, specifically derived from the Latin word 'et' for 'and'.

The word 'ampersand' itself originated from the phrase 'and per se and,' which was traditionally recited when the symbol was taught as the 27th character of the English alphabet.

Quick facts

• DateSeptember 8
• TypeKindness / Community
• Great forCommunity groups, Friends, Coworkers

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Ways to celebrate

The ampersand's own name is a linguistic accident — it comes from generations of schoolchildren slurring together the phrase "and per se and" until the mumbled version became the symbol's actual name.

Notice it everywhere

Celebrate by:

• Writing "&" instead of "and" for the whole day, just to notice how often you reach for it.
• Looking for interesting ampersand designs in logos and signage around you.

See where the symbol came from

Helpful resources:

• What Character Was Removed From the Alphabet? (Dictionary.com)

Did you know?

The symbol itself is a ligature of the Latin word "et," meaning "and" — it shows up in graffiti preserved at Pompeii, meaning it predates the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Fun facts

• The ampersand is a ligature, meaning a combination of two or more letters into a single character, specifically derived from the Latin word 'et' for 'and'.
• The word 'ampersand' itself originated from the phrase 'and per se and,' which was traditionally recited when the symbol was taught as the 27th character of the English alphabet.
• For centuries, until around the mid-19th century, the ampersand was officially considered the 27th letter of the English alphabet.

Sources and attribution

What Character Was Removed From the Alphabet? (Dictionary.com)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

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FAQ

When is National Ampersand Day?

It is observed on September 8 each year.

What is National Ampersand Day?

National Ampersand Day, observed annually on September 8th, is a celebration of the unique typographical symbol '&'. This day encourages appreciation for the character that elegantly represents the word 'and', recognizing its long history and continued presence in language, typography, and design.

How do people celebrate National Ampersand Day?

Write "&" instead of "and" for the day and notice interesting ampersand designs in logos and signage around you.

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