Precedes Symbol
The ≺ (precedes) symbol indicates that one item comes before another in order or relation.
U+227A
≺ is a math symbol commonly described as “precedes.” It’s useful when you want to show an ordering relationship in text or notation. You can copy it directly or use the provided HTML, CSS, and JavaScript escapes.
Precedes Symbol Meaning
The symbol “≺” is read as “precedes.” In math and logic-style writing, it’s used to express that one element is ordered before another, often as part of a relational statement (for example, a sequence or precedence relationship). In typography and plain-text contexts, it can also visually suggest an earlier-than or comes-before idea when you’re writing structured content, timelines, or ordered comparisons. While it is most at home in mathematical notation, it’s still handy as a compact arrow-like symbol that reads clearly to many readers.
Common uses
- •Writing ordered relationships like “a ≺ b” in notes and documentation
- •Showing precedence in timelines or step-by-step workflows
- •Labeling ordered lists in infographics or posters
- •Indicating “earlier than” in comparisons or sorting descriptions
- •Typing compact relational statements in math, logic, or programming docs
Examples
≺ Precedes Symbol (U+227A)
- ≺In our ordering, A ≺ B.
- ≺Step 1 ≺ Step 2.
- ≺If x ≺ y, then x comes first.
- ≺Version 1.2 ≺ version 2.0.
- ≺In the sequence, item 3 ≺ item 4.
Variations
Ready to copy
Technical codes
| Unicode | U+227A | |
| HTML Entity | ≺ | |
| HTML Code | ≺ | |
| CSS | \227A | |
| Alt Code | Alt + 8826 | |
| Decimal | 8826 |
How to type Precedes Symbol (≺)
On Windows
Hold Alt and type 8826 on the numeric keypad. In Word, type 227A then press Alt + X.
On Mac
Switch to the Unicode Hex Input keyboard, then hold Option and type 227A. Or press Control + Command + Space and search.
On Linux
Press Control + Shift + U, type 227a, 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 ≺ mean?
≺ is commonly read as “precedes,” meaning one element comes before another in an ordered relationship.
How do I copy the ≺ symbol?
You can copy it directly from this page as “≺”. Many text editors and design tools allow direct pasting.
What is the Unicode code point for ≺?
The Unicode code point is U+227A.
How can I use ≺ in HTML, CSS, or JavaScript?
HTML entity: ≺. CSS escape: \\227A. JavaScript escape: \\u{227A}.