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A sideways figure-eight (∞) denoting an unbounded quantity in mathematics, and used more broadly as a symbol of endlessness.
Also known as: Lemniscate, Sideways eight, Lazy eight
Introduced into mathematics by John Wallis in 1655 to denote an infinite quantity, the lemniscate shape is now also widely used outside mathematics as a general symbol of endlessness, eternity and continuity.
Denotes a quantity without bound or end in mathematical notation, introduced by English mathematician John Wallis in De sectionibus conicis (1655).
1655 onward · Contexts: Mathematics
A single looping line crossing itself once in the middle, forming two joined loops like a figure eight on its side.