macron

Definition

A short, straight, horizontal diacritical mark (◌̄) placed over a letter, usually to indicate that the pronunciation of a vowel is long.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek μακρόν (makrón), neuter form of μακρός (makrós, “long”) (English macro-).

Example Sentences

• "We say such words belong to a Long family, because of the long macron hat the vowels wear. Like the other twin o's, one hat is enough for both, for these twins are always found together."
• "A macron is a mark placed above a long vowel to mark its quantity."
• "All vowels are pronounced short unless marked with a ¯ (macron) over them. So observe different vowel length of ‘i ’ in, e.g., fīlia, etc. It may be helpful, but is not essential, to mark macra in your exercises."