∿
Unicode
U+223FLaTeX
\simHTML entity
∿HTML decimal
∿MathML
<mo>∿</mo>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ∼ — Similar To
Use ∿ in the right format
Meaning and usage
Represents a sinusoidal waveform or alternating signal in diagrams and notation.
Do not confuse it with the similarity relation; context and labels should identify a waveform.
Pronunciation: sine wave
Formula examples
V∿tHow to type Sine Wave
- Windows
- Use Character Map or enter U+223F 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 \sim 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 \sim.
- Excel
- Paste ∿ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- Preserve the orientation and decoration of ∿; in geometry a rotated, barred, or marked symbol can represent a different relation or object.
- For plain text, copy ∿ as U+223F; for structured equations, use \sim in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Sine Wave.
When to use ∿
- Use ∿ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+223F.
- Use \sim in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Sine Wave is used in trigonometry, physics with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ∼ — Similar To
Font and compatibility notes
Font coverage varies; verify the code point and destination rendering before publication.
Continue the workflow
From Sine Wave to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse ∿ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
\simfor 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: catalog
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 Sine Wave symbol mean?
Represents a sinusoidal waveform or alternating signal in diagrams and notation.
What is the LaTeX command for ∿?
Use \sim in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy ∿ as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.