Many search engines and databases use truncation symbols and wildcards to search for variant endings or forms of words, such as singulars and plurals, or to replace letters within words. For example, when doing a keyword search:

comput* searches for computer, computers, computing, etc. A single asterisk replaces 0-5 characters in the middle or at the end of a word. Two asterisks replace an infinite number of characters.

wom?n searches for woman and women. A question mark replaces exactly one character in the middle or at the end of a word.

The symbols vary among search engines and databases, so it's important to check the search tips or help screens provided. Some of the more common truncation and wildcard symbols are a question mark (?)or an asterisk (*).

Truncation symbols and wildcards are useful for broadening your search; however, they can also result in unintended results. Truncating a word like car* retrieves car, cars, card, carpet, and so on.