U+22C8\bowtie⋈⋈<mo>⋈</mo>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ∧ — Logical And
Use ⋈ in the right format
Meaning and usage
Represents a join, natural join, or another relation formed from two directions.
Database theory and order theory assign different meanings, so label the operation.
Pronunciation: bowtie relation
Formula examples
R⋈SHow to type Bowtie Relation
- Windows
- Use Character Map or enter U+22C8 in a Unicode-aware application.
- macOS
- Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search by the symbol name.
- Microsoft Word
- In an equation, type \bowtie and press Space when Word supports the command.
- iPhone and iPad
- Copy and paste ⋈, or use a math/LaTeX app. The standard iOS keyboard may not expose every mathematical symbol.
- Android
- Copy and paste ⋈, or use a math keyboard or LaTeX editor. Keyboard layouts vary by device and app.
- Google Docs
- For plain text, paste ⋈ or use Insert → Special characters. For structured math, use the equation editor and verify \bowtie.
- Excel
- Paste ⋈ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- Confirm the field-specific convention before using ⋈; Database theory and order theory assign different meanings, so label the operation.
- For plain text, copy ⋈ as U+22C8; for structured equations, use \bowtie in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Bowtie Relation.
When to use ⋈
- Use ⋈ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+22C8.
- Use \bowtie in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Bowtie Relation is used in comparison, discrete math with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ∧ — Logical And
Font and compatibility notes
Glyph shape can vary by font. Verify the code point after copying, and prefer LaTeX or MathML for structured equations.
Continue the workflow
From Bowtie Relation to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse ⋈ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
\bowtiefor LaTeX or the MathML snippet for accessible web equations. - Edit or convertOpen the value in the editor or converter without retyping it.
Review and source notes
Quality tier: specialist
Last reviewed: 2026-07-23
Review method: Catalog review of character identity and notation mappings.
Verified against: Unicode Standard, Unicode mathematical notation guidance, and established LaTeX/MathML syntax.
Reference sources
- The Unicode StandardUnicode Consortium — Character identity, encoding, names, and conformance.
- Unicode Character Code ChartsUnicode Consortium — Code points and official character charts.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bowtie Relation symbol mean?
Represents a join, natural join, or another relation formed from two directions.
What is the LaTeX command for ⋈?
Use \bowtie in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy ⋈ as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.