It is called a backslash because it is the reverse of the slash (/) or forward slash. The backslash is used in several computer systems, and in many programming languages such as c and perl. Learn how to easily type the backslash symbol on your keyboard with our step-by-step guide for all users.

The backslash \ is a typographical mark used mainly in computing and mathematics. It is the mirror image of the common slash ('solidus'), /. It is a relatively recent mark, first documented in the 1930s. The meaning of backslash is a mark \ used especially in computer programming.