Multiplication symbol
The multiplication symbol × is a cross that counts: 3 × 4 says “three, four times over”. It has rivals — the dot ⋅ of algebra, the asterisk * of code, and the letter x that only pretends to be it. Copy the real signs here and learn which one belongs where, so your equations never borrow the wrong character again.
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×, ⋅, * or x — which one?
| Sign | Where it belongs |
|---|---|
| × (U+00D7) | The true times sign: school maths, dimensions (200 × 150), quantities and everyday writing |
| ⋅ (U+22C5) | Algebra and science, where × is reserved for vectors and cross products — the dot keeps products unambiguous |
| * (asterisk) | Code and spreadsheets: every programming language and Excel formula multiplies with * |
| x (letter) | Never in real maths — it reads as the variable x. Fine in casual chat (“2x points”), wrong in a worksheet |
William Oughtred introduced × in 1631, and it stuck because it cannot be confused with a plus or a letter at a glance. The dot came later, from Leibniz, who disliked × precisely because it resembles x — the two signs have been politely dividing the work ever since: × for numbers, ⋅ for algebra.
How to type it
| Platform | Method |
|---|---|
| Windows | Alt + 0215 on the numeric keypad; in Word, type D7 then Alt + X |
| Mac | No single key — Character Viewer (search “multiplication”) or copy from here |
| HTML / LaTeX | HTML: the “times” entity name (ampersand + times;) or code 215. LaTeX: \times, dot is \cdot |
| Excel / code | Always the asterisk: =3*4 — the × character is for display text only |
Explore more
The reverse operation lives on the divide symbol page, the full operator set gathers in the math symbols collection, and the squared sign that multiplication builds towards is the root symbol‘s partner in formulas.
Frequently asked questions
Is × the same as the letter x?
No — different characters entirely. × (U+00D7) is a symmetrical cross designed as an operator; x is a letter. They look alike in some fonts, which is exactly why maths reserves × for numbers and keeps x for unknowns: “3 × x” shows both doing their own jobs.
Why do calculators and Excel use * instead?
Early computer keyboards had no × key, so the asterisk — available on every typewriter — became the multiplication operator in code, and it never changed back. In formulas, type *; in finished text, display ×.
When should I use ⋅ instead of ×?
In algebra and higher maths: a ⋅ b is clearer than a × b when letters are involved, and in physics × is saved for the cross product of vectors. School arithmetic and everyday dimensions stay with ×.
How do I write dimensions correctly?
Number, space, ×, space, number, then the unit once at the end: “200 × 150 px” or “3 m × 4 m”. The × sits between the measurements; writing the unit twice (3 m × 4 m is acceptable in prose, but 3 × 4 m is cleaner in specs).