First of all, I’d like to thank you for such a great website! It has been very enlightening!

I have a question about this symbol: { } What is the name of this symbol and also what is the correct usage of it?

I tried looking up bracket, but that is this [ ].

Dear A:

These are called “wavy brackets” (USA), “curly braces” (UK), or something similar. They really have no function in grammar or writing at all. They are sometimes used in mathematics and in computer programming where they function as an alternate to parentheses or brackets.

Occasionally, a single wavy bracket turned with the open end down is used in proofreading to show words that should be united.

I hope this helps.