What is an oxford comma?

The Oxford comma, often referred to as the serial comma, is used before the conjunction in a list of three or more items. For example, in the sentence "I would like to have apples, oranges, and bananas," the comma before “and” is the Oxford comma. Its purpose is to clarify the meaning of sentences and prevent ambiguity, ensuring that each item in the list is distinctly separated.

In this context, the final comma in a list of things plays an important role in providing clarity. For instance, without the Oxford comma, a sentence could imply a different meaning, such as suggesting a partnership between the last two items when that might not be the intention. Therefore, this particular definition accurately captures the essence of what an Oxford comma is and why it is important in writing and punctuation.