notate

Notate is a verb meaning to write or convey information using a system of signs, symbols, or marks, i.e., to put something into notation. The term derives from Late Latin notare "to mark," from notus "known," and has been in English since the medieval period.

Usage spans disciplines. In music, to notate a melody or rhythm means to write it in musical notation on a staff, including pitch, duration, tempo, dynamics, and articulations. Notation systems include standard staff notation and guitar tablature. In mathematics and science, to notate denotes assigning a standard symbol or expression to a concept, such as notating a function by f(x) or a vector by boldface v, to facilitate communication and manipulation. In linguistics and phonetics, notating involves representing speech with phonetic symbols such as the IPA. In dance and choreography, movement can be notated using systems like Laban or Benesh notation.

Important distinction: notate is about encoding information in a formal notation, whereas annotate means to add explanatory notes or comments to existing material. Notational conventions vary by field and context, and clear notation aims to reduce ambiguity and improve readability. Notate also appears in educational materials as a practice to teach students how to read and write the relevant notation.