Tilde Operator Symbol
The ∼ tilde operator (U+223C) is a symbol used to express approximation or relatedness.
U+223C
The symbol ∼ is known as the tilde operator (U+223C). You’ll see it in math, science, and writing when something is approximately equal or similar. Here you can copy it easily and use the correct escapes in web code.
Tilde Operator Symbol Meaning
∼ is the “tilde operator” with Unicode code point U+223C. In mathematical writing, it commonly indicates approximation—meaning “approximately equal to” (e.g., 3 ∼ 3.1) rather than exact equality. It is also used to suggest similarity or proportional/behavioral resemblance in some contexts. In general text, people may use ∼ as a quick shorthand for “about” or “roughly,” especially when space is limited. Because ∼ is distinct from a plain tilde (~, often U+007E), it’s best to use the tilde operator when you specifically want the U+223C character and its typical typographic intent.
Common uses
- •Write “approximately equal to” in quick math notes or captions.
- •Indicate an estimate in measurements (e.g., 10 ∼ 12 km).
- •Show similarity or proportional relationship in informal technical writing.
- •Format drafts and mockups where you want a proper math-style tilde.
- •Use in web content via reliable copy/paste or Unicode escapes.
Examples
∼ Tilde Operator Symbol (U+223C)
- ∼The value is ∼ 50% after calibration.
- ∼We expect a ∼ 2-hour delay today.
- ∼For small angles, sin(x) ∼ x.
- ∼Her results are ∼ consistent across all trials.
- ∼Approximate cost: $30 ∼ $40 depending on options.
Variations
Ready to copy
Technical codes
| Unicode | U+223C | |
| HTML Entity | ∼ | |
| HTML Code | ∼ | |
| CSS | \223C |
FAQ
What does the Tilde Operator symbol mean?
∼ is the “tilde operator” with Unicode code point U+223C. In mathematical writing, it commonly indicates approximation—meaning “approximately equal to” (e.g., 3 ∼ 3.1) rather than exact equality. It is also used to suggest similarity or proportional/behavioral resemblance in some contexts. In general text, people may use ∼ as a quick shorthand for “about” or “roughly,” especially when space is limited. Because ∼ is distinct from a plain tilde (~, often U+007E), it’s best to use the tilde operator when you specifically want the U+223C character and its typical typographic intent.
Is ∼ the same as the normal tilde ~?
No. ∼ is the tilde operator (Unicode U+223C). The normal tilde ~ is a different character (commonly U+007E), so they may render differently and can have different intended meaning.
How can I copy ∼ from a web page?
Copy the character directly from this page. You can also use the provided HTML entity ∼ or the Unicode escapes listed (CSS \\223C, JavaScript \\u{223C}).
Where should I use ∼ in writing?
Use it when you want “approximately equal to,” “about/roughly,” or “similar to” in a math/technical-friendly style.
What are the Unicode and escape details for ∼?
Unicode name: TILDE OPERATOR. Code point: U+223C. HTML entity: ∼. CSS escape: \\223C. JavaScript escape: \\u{223C}.