Reader Syntax Entry: Symbol

← Prev | ↑ Chapter | Next → | Index | Symbols

Reader Syntax Entry: Symbol

Name

Symbol Token

Class

Reader Syntax

Concrete Syntax

A symbol token is any token not otherwise read as a number or syntax delimiter, subject to the character restrictions below.

Constituents

  • one or more non-delimiter characters

Description

AutoLISP symbol names are case-insensitive. Autodesk documents that they may contain alphanumeric and notation characters, except at least:

  • (
  • )
  • .
  • '
  • "
  • ;

A symbol name cannot consist solely of numeric characters.

Acceptance Rules

  • blanks, newlines, tabs, and parentheses are documented token delimiters for read

Strict/Lax Policy

  • strict: reject tokens that fall outside documented delimiter and reserved-character rules
  • lax: may accept host-confirmed punctuation or edge cases when needed for compatibility

Examples

  • FOO
  • bar
  • c:my-command

Compatibility

  • print convention is uppercase in Autodesk examples
  • exact escaping and extended symbol syntax remain under-specified

Notes

This specification does not standardize CL-style package syntax or vertical-bar escaping.

Availability

  • AutoCAD 2026: documented (per Autodesk reference page).
  • BricsCAD V26: presumed compatible (no contradicting page found).
  • Status: AutoCAD documented; BricsCAD presumed-both pending Phase 4 verification.