ASCII Character @

The "@" sign, also known as the "at sign" or "at symbol", is a typographical character used most commonly in email addresses and social media handles. Its exact shape can vary somewhat depending on typeface, but the standard version consists of a lowercase "a" enclosed or partially enclosed by a circular or oval loop.

The use of the @ symbol in email addresses dates back to the early days of the internet, when it was used as a way to separate the user's name from the domain name. For example, in the email address "username@example.com", the @ sign separates the user's name, "username", from the domain name, "example.com".

On social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, the @ symbol is used to tag or mention other users. For example, typing "@username" in a tweet or a post will notify that user that they've been mentioned.

While the @ sign is now a universal symbol recognized around the globe, its origins are somewhat unclear. It's believed to have originated from the Latin term 'ad', meaning 'at' or 'toward', which over time was shortened and eventually morphed into the symbol we recognize today. The symbol's use in digital communication has significantly boosted its visibility and importance in the 21st century.