Colon Symbol
The colon “:” is a punctuation mark used to introduce lists, explanations, and times.
U+003A
The colon “:” (Unicode U+003A) is a common punctuation mark in English writing and many other text systems. You can copy it easily using the HTML entity or Unicode escapes shown on this page. It’s also widely used in programming formats such as time strings and character labels.
Colon Symbol Meaning
The colon “:” is a punctuation mark (Unicode name: COLON) used to introduce information that follows. In writing, it often signals an explanation, a list, or a direct relationship between two parts of a sentence (for example, “Notes: …” or “Term: Definition”). It is also used in times (“10:30”), ratios, and to separate elements in structured text like URLs, timestamps, and key–value labels. In many programming and markup contexts, the colon appears as a delimiter in syntax and data formatting. Visually, it’s a single punctuation character with two vertically aligned dots.
Common uses
- •Introducing a list or itemized details (e.g., “Ingredients: sugar, flour, butter”).
- •Separating a heading from its explanation (e.g., “Reminder: submit the form”).
- •Writing times (e.g., “09:15”).
- •Formatting ratios and structured numeric expressions (e.g., “1:2”).
- •Separating labels from values in text and data (e.g., “Status: active”).
Examples
: Colon (U+003A) — copy & use
- :Location: New York
- :Steps: 1) Preheat 2) Mix 3) Bake
- :Current time is 14:05
- :Score: 3:1
- :Note: Keep receipts for reimbursement
Variations
Ready to copy
Technical codes
| Unicode | U+003A | |
| HTML Entity | : | |
| HTML Code | : | |
| CSS | \003A | |
| Alt Code | Alt + 58 | |
| Decimal | 58 |
How to type Colon Symbol (:)
On Windows
Hold Alt and type 58 on the numeric keypad. In Word, type 003A then press Alt + X.
On Mac
Switch to the Unicode Hex Input keyboard, then hold Option and type 003A. Or press Control + Command + Space and search.
On Linux
Press Control + Shift + U, type 003a, 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 Colon symbol mean?
The colon “:” is a punctuation mark (Unicode name: COLON) used to introduce information that follows. In writing, it often signals an explanation, a list, or a direct relationship between two parts of a sentence (for example, “Notes: …” or “Term: Definition”). It is also used in times (“10:30”), ratios, and to separate elements in structured text like URLs, timestamps, and key–value labels. In many programming and markup contexts, the colon appears as a delimiter in syntax and data formatting. Visually, it’s a single punctuation character with two vertically aligned dots.
What Unicode character is the colon “:”?
The colon is Unicode character U+003A, Unicode name COLON.
How do I copy the colon in HTML?
Use the HTML entity: :
What is the JavaScript Unicode escape for the colon?
Use: \\u{003A}
When should I use a colon in writing?
Use a colon to introduce a list, an explanation, or a heading-to-details relationship, and for times like 10:30.