What term is used to describe characters that have special meaning when used in the Linux shell?

The term used to describe characters that have special meaning when used in the Linux shell is "metacharacters." Metacharacters are specific characters or sequences that alter the normal behavior of commands in the shell. For instance, symbols such as the dollar sign ($), ampersand (&), and asterisk (*) serve particular functions in command-line operations. The dollar sign is used to introduce variables, the ampersand can run processes in the background, and the asterisk serves as a wildcard for matching files.

Understanding metacharacters is crucial for effective command line usage, as they enable greater control over command execution and file manipulation. Recognizing how they function allows users to craft more complex commands, utilize scripting effectively, and navigate the shell environment with precision.