The ∾ (Inverted Lazy S) Symbol: Meaning, History, and How to Use It
The ∾ (Inverted Lazy S) symbol is a mathematical operator officially defined in the Unicode standard as U+223E. It looks like a sideways letter "S" or a single, continuous wave. While originally designed for advanced mathematics to denote specific types of equivalence or proportional relationships, it is most commonly recognized today as the universal symbol for alternating current (AC) on electronic devices.
You can find the ∾ symbol in the Mathematical Operators Unicode block. Its official code point is U+223E. This block houses a massive collection of arithmetic and logical symbols, giving digital devices a standardized way to render complex equations. Because it sits alongside heavy hitters like the plus sign and the infinity symbol, ∾ enjoys wide support across modern fonts, web browsers, and operating systems.
In mathematics and physics, ∾ often represents proportionality, equivalence, or an alternating current. If you check the power brick for your laptop or look closely at a digital multimeter, you will likely spot this wavy line indicating AC power. Beyond science and math, the symbol pops up in digital typography and social media. Creative users often string multiple Inverted Lazy S characters together (∾∾∾) to create aesthetic borders, tiny ocean waves, or minimalist decorative dividers in their profiles and posts.
Typing the ∾ symbol takes a quick shortcut since it does not live on a standard keyboard. On a Mac, press Control + Command + Space to open the Character Viewer and search for "inverted lazy S". On Windows, you can track it down inside the Character Map app. Web developers and programmers can insert it using the HTML entity ∾ or the hex code ∾. If you only need it once, copying and pasting it directly from this page is usually the fastest method.
The Inverted Lazy S is frequently confused with a few of its wavy siblings. The standard Lazy S (∽) is its direct mirror image, curving in the exact opposite direction. The classic tilde (~) sits higher up on the text line and is a typing staple on most standard keyboards. Meanwhile, the "almost equal to" symbol (≈) stacks two wavy lines on top of each other. Knowing the difference ensures your physics homework—or your aesthetic Instagram bio—looks exactly the way you intended.