Why do we use @ in emails? A story that mixes linguistics and technology
Have you ever stopped to wonder why we use @ in emails? Today is the day to find out the answer!
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The symbol '@', so common in email addresses, has a fascinating history that spans centuries.
Today, it is indispensable for digital communication, but its journey to this point involves much more than technology.
This is because, behind the symbol, there is a linguistic, commercial and cultural legacy that has transformed it into a global icon.
In this article, we will explore why do we use '@' in emails, from its origins in medieval trade to its adoption as part of the modern email system.
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Discover how a simple character became a central piece of digital communication!
Historical origin of the '@' symbol
Before being associated with technology, the '@' had a long history in manuscripts and commerce.
Thus, its origin dates back to the Middle Ages, when it served as a practical abbreviation.
Usage as an abbreviation in medieval Latin
In the 6th century, medieval scribes used the symbol '@' as an abbreviation for the word ad, meaning “in” or “to”. This practice saved time when writing documents.
Adoption in European trade
In the Renaissance, the '@' began to appear in commercial transactions. It was used to indicate prices or quantities. For example, “10 apples @ 2 coins” meant 10 apples at a cost of 2 coins each.
The transition to printing and typography
With the invention of Gutenberg's printing press, the symbol gained popularity in printed books and documents. It was widely used in trade catalogs.
Studies from the Oxford English Dictionary show that the first recorded use of '@' in English it occurred in 1536, in a business letter sent from Florence to Rome.
| Century | Use of the '@' symbol | Context |
| VI | Abbreviation of ad | Handwritten writing in Latin |
| XV | Symbol for prices or quantities | European trade |
| XIX | Inclusion in typewriters | Standard on keyboards and business documents |
The Digital Revolution: How '@' Became Essential for Emails
The jump of the '@' from traditional commerce to technology was driven by Ray Tomlinson, the engineer responsible for creating the email system we know today.
The technological context of the 1970s
In the early days of ARPANET, the precursor to the Internet, it was necessary to identify senders and recipients on shared systems. Choosing a unique token was crucial.
Ray Tomlinson's choice of '@'
In 1971, Tomlinson needed a character that would separate the user name and the server domain. He opted for '@' because it was already present on keyboards and was not part of proper names.
The popularization of email and the global impact of the symbol
After its introduction into the email system, the '@' quickly became standard. Today, it is used in billions of addresses, cementing its status as a universal token.
So, Ray Tomlinson described his choice simply: “It was logical and it was there. The '@' connected the user to the location.”
++Electronic or digital signature: differences and existing types – Accessed.
Why We Use '@' in Emails: Functionality and Symbolism
In addition to its technical practicality, the '@' carries cultural and linguistic meanings that help explain why it has become so iconic.
The symbolism of connection
The '@' represents a link between the user and the domain, reinforcing the idea of direct communication. It has become a symbol of modern connectivity.
Adaptation in different languages
Interestingly, the '@' has received creative nicknames around the world. In Italy, it is called chiocciola (snail), while in Spain it is known as at, referring to the historical unit of measurement.
The influence on pop culture and design
With the popularization of the internet, the '@' has surpassed emails. It is present in social media, graphic design and even contemporary art, symbolizing the digital age.
According to research conducted by Radicati Group, more than 4 billion people use email, making the '@' one of the most globally recognized symbols.
The '@' in the digital world and its new applications
Although email was the starting point, the use of '@' evolved into other digital contexts, showing its versatility and impact.
Presence on social networks
The '@' has been incorporated into platforms such as Twitter and Instagram, where it identifies users and facilitates interactions. This use reinforces its function of connecting people.
The expansion into artificial intelligence and technology
The symbol also appears in programming commands and artificial intelligence systems. It is used to specify variables, indicating their technical adaptability.
Possible futures for the symbol
With advances like the metaverse and quantum computing, it is possible that the '@' find new meanings. Its simplicity makes it ideal for global systems.
Conclusion: the legacy of '@' in history and technology
The story of why do we use '@' in emails reveals a lot about the relationship between tradition and innovation.
This is because, from its origins in the Middle Ages to its adoption in digital communication, the symbol '@' has proven to be incredibly versatile, as it connects users to domains and also symbolizes the essence of modern connectivity.
As Ray Tomlinson, the creator of email, stated: “The '@' was a simple choice, but its impact was extraordinary.”
So today, it stands as a testament to how small details can shape the world.
Read too: The Barcode: Who invented it and how does it transform our purchases? – I accessed it.
