enotikon

An enotikon is a rare and unusual punctuation mark that resembles a stylized wine glass, specifically a goblet or chalice. It is primarily used in the Greek language to denote the omission of a vowel or syllable in a word, particularly in the context of poetic meter or prosody. The enotikon (Greek: ενωτικόν, *enōtikón*) is also known as a "wine glass" or "cup" symbol, reflecting its visual resemblance to a drinking vessel.

Historically, the enotikon was introduced by the Greek poet and scholar **Konstantinos Kavafis** in the early 20th century as part of his efforts to modernize Greek orthography and improve readability in poetry. It was designed to simplify the pronunciation of certain words by indicating where a vowel or syllable might be elided or softened in speech. Unlike other diacritical marks, the enotikon does not alter the spelling of a word but instead serves as a phonetic guide for readers.

The symbol is shaped like a small, open-topped cup with a stem, resembling a wine goblet. It is placed above or below the affected vowel or syllable, much like an accent mark. For example, in the word "ἐν" (en, meaning "in"), the enotikon might be used to indicate a softer pronunciation, though its usage remains relatively limited compared to other Greek diacritics.

While the enotikon was intended to aid in poetic meter and pronunciation, its adoption has been minimal, and it is not widely recognized outside of specialized linguistic or poetic circles. Modern Greek orthography continues to rely on traditional diacritical marks, with the enotikon remaining a niche tool for specific stylistic or phonetic purposes. Its legacy, however, endures as an example of experimental typography in linguistic reform.