What is &?
1.
Ampersand: a stylized, contractual form of the Latin word "et". Many people incorrectly substitute this symbol for the English word and. Although the Latin word "et" does mean "and", it is improper to substitute "&" for "and". Bad, bad grammar.
In combination with the Roman charater 'c', i.e., "&c." it means et cetera, (etc.).
I went shopping, to the bookstore, &c.