Useless fact
What is the infinity symbol called?
The mathematical symbol for infinity is officially called a lemniscate.
The mathematical symbol for infinity, shaped like a sideways figure eight, is formally referred to as a lemniscate. The term originates from the Latin word lemniscatus, which translates to decorated with ribbons. This mathematical curve was first described in detail by the Swiss mathematician Jacob Bernoulli in 1694, who analyzed its geometric properties without knowing that John Wallis had already introduced the similar infinity symbol in 1655. Wallis chose the symbol based on late Roman numerals for large numbers, while Bernoulli's mathematical description of the curve cemented its association with the name lemniscate. Today, the term is widely used in geometry and algebraic mathematics to describe this specific family of curves. Although most people recognize the shape simply as the infinity sign, its precise classification in mathematics remains the lemniscate, serving as an elegant bridge between geometry, classical Latin terminology, and modern calculus.
Why this is true — The mathematical name for the infinity symbol is established in dictionaries and mathematical literature as the lemniscate.
Sources
- lemniscata | Diccionario de la lengua española Real Academia Española