free-symbols

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

UnicodeU+227A
HTML Entity≺
HTML Code≺
CSS\227A

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}.