The hashtag symbol is technically called an octothorpe.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the "octo-" prefix refers to the eight points on the popular symbol, but the "thorpe" remains a mystery. One theory claims that it comes from the Old English word for "village," based on the idea that the symbol looks like a village surrounded by eight fields!

That's a fascinating tidbit about the hashtag symbol! I had no idea it had such an interesting origin. "Octothorpe" is quite the unique name for it, and the explanation behind it is a charming theory. It's always fun to learn the quirky histories behind everyday symbols and terms. Thanks for sharing this nugget of knowledge!

Yes, it is true that the "octothorpe" is one name used to refer to this symbol. As you mentioned, the "octo-" prefix refers to the eight points on the symbol. However, the origin of the "thorpe" part of the name is still debated and not entirely clear. One theory is that it may be a combination of "octo" and "thorp," which is an Old English word for a small village or hamlet, perhaps referring to the way the symbol looks like a village surrounded by fields. However, this is just one theory, and the exact origin of the name remains uncertain.