Squared Minus Symbol
⊟ is the squared minus symbol (U+229F), often used to represent subtraction in stylized math layouts.
U+229F
The symbol ⊟ is known as SQUARED MINUS and is encoded as Unicode U+229F. It’s commonly used in math and technical text where a boxed or emphasized minus sign is helpful. Below you’ll find meaning, copy options, and practical ways to use it.
Squared Minus Symbol Meaning
⊟ (SQUARED MINUS, U+229F) is a typographic minus sign shown inside a squared form. In mathematics and technical writing, it can be used to represent subtraction or a “minus” relation in a more decorative or structured way than a plain hyphen or minus (−). Because it’s visually distinct, writers sometimes prefer ⊟ in headings, diagrams, or formatted text to make the operation stand out, especially in line-based notation or UI elements where consistent symbol styling matters. In plain text, it should be used when you specifically want the squared/boxed appearance rather than the standard minus character.
Common uses
- •Represent subtraction in stylized math text or documentation
- •Label UI elements or icons for “decrease” or “minus” actions
- •Use in equations or diagrams where a boxed minus matches surrounding symbols
- •Create consistent symbols in educational materials and worksheets
- •Add a distinctive operator in plain-text formulas for readability
Examples
⊟ Squared Minus (U+229F)
- ⊟Compute 5 ⊟ 2 = 3.
- ⊟The operation is subtraction, shown as ⊟.
- ⊟Total = items ⊟ removed items.
- ⊟Use ⊟ to indicate the minus step in the sequence.
- ⊟Decrease value by applying ⊟ to the operand.
Variations
Ready to copy
Technical codes
| Unicode | U+229F | |
| HTML Entity | ⊟ | |
| HTML Code | ⊟ | |
| CSS | \229F | |
| Alt Code | Alt + 8863 | |
| Decimal | 8863 |
How to type Squared Minus Symbol (⊟)
On Windows
Hold Alt and type 8863 on the numeric keypad. In Word, type 229F then press Alt + X.
On Mac
Switch to the Unicode Hex Input keyboard, then hold Option and type 229F. Or press Control + Command + Space and search.
On Linux
Press Control + Shift + U, type 229f, 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 Squared Minus symbol mean?
⊟ (SQUARED MINUS, U+229F) is a typographic minus sign shown inside a squared form. In mathematics and technical writing, it can be used to represent subtraction or a “minus” relation in a more decorative or structured way than a plain hyphen or minus (−). Because it’s visually distinct, writers sometimes prefer ⊟ in headings, diagrams, or formatted text to make the operation stand out, especially in line-based notation or UI elements where consistent symbol styling matters. In plain text, it should be used when you specifically want the squared/boxed appearance rather than the standard minus character.
What is the Unicode name of ⊟?
The Unicode name is “SQUARED MINUS”.
What is the Unicode code point for ⊟?
It is U+229F.
How do I copy ⊟ in HTML?
You can use the HTML entity: ⊟.
Is ⊟ the same as the regular minus sign −?
They both represent “minus”, but ⊟ is a specific typographic character with a squared/boxed appearance. Use − if you want the standard minus glyph.