Asterisk Operator Symbol
The ∗ symbol is the Asterisk Operator (U+2217), commonly used in math and specialized notation.
U+2217
∗ is known as the asterisk operator with Unicode code point U+2217. It’s distinct from the regular asterisk (*) used in plain text and programming contexts. Use it when you need a true typographic operator character.
Asterisk Operator Symbol Meaning
The “Asterisk Operator” (∗) is a mathematical operator character: Unicode names it “ASTERISK OPERATOR” and assigns it code point U+2217. In documents and notation, it may appear in places where an operator-style asterisk is preferred over the ASCII asterisk (*). Depending on the font and context, it can be used to indicate an operator, multiplication-like notation, or specialized markup in math-heavy writing. Because ∗ and * are different characters, it’s best to copy the exact symbol when you need consistent typography across browsers, editors, and publishing tools.
Common uses
- •Math notation in equations and textbooks where an operator asterisk is preferred
- •Scientific writing to distinguish from the plain ASCII asterisk (*)
- •Designing math symbols for posters, slides, and educational materials
- •Creating consistent typographic emphasis in formulas or annotated text
- •Using as a visual marker in technical documentation that distinguishes notation levels
Examples
∗ Asterisk Operator (U+2217)
- ∗Define f∗ as the transformed function.
- ∗The operator ∗ is applied to each term.
- ∗Let a∗ and b∗ denote adjusted values.
- ∗Consider the expression: x ∗ y in the given notation.
- ∗We write g∗(t) for the resulting function.
Variations
Ready to copy
Technical codes
| Unicode | U+2217 | |
| HTML Entity | ∗ | |
| HTML Code | ∗ | |
| CSS | \2217 | |
| Alt Code | Alt + 8727 | |
| Decimal | 8727 |
How to type Asterisk Operator Symbol (∗)
On Windows
Hold Alt and type 8727 on the numeric keypad. In Word, type 2217 then press Alt + X.
On Mac
Switch to the Unicode Hex Input keyboard, then hold Option and type 2217. Or press Control + Command + Space and search.
On Linux
Press Control + Shift + U, type 2217, then press Enter or Space.
Anywhere
Copy ∗ with the button above and paste it wherever you need it — this works on every device and in every app, with no keyboard shortcut to remember.
FAQ
What does the Asterisk Operator symbol mean?
The “Asterisk Operator” (∗) is a mathematical operator character: Unicode names it “ASTERISK OPERATOR” and assigns it code point U+2217. In documents and notation, it may appear in places where an operator-style asterisk is preferred over the ASCII asterisk (*). Depending on the font and context, it can be used to indicate an operator, multiplication-like notation, or specialized markup in math-heavy writing. Because ∗ and * are different characters, it’s best to copy the exact symbol when you need consistent typography across browsers, editors, and publishing tools.
Is ∗ the same as the regular asterisk (*)?
No. ∗ is the Unicode “ASTERISK OPERATOR” (U+2217). The regular asterisk (*) is a different character commonly used in plain text and programming.
What is the Unicode code point for ∗?
U+2217.
How can I include ∗ in HTML?
Use the HTML entity: ∗.
How do I type ∗ in JavaScript strings?
You can use the Unicode escape: \\u{2217}.