SOS in Morse Code
SOS in Morse code is ... --- ... — three dots, three dashes, three dots.
What SOS means
SOS is the international distress signal — the message you send when you need urgent help. Contrary to popular belief, SOS doesn't stand for "Save Our Souls" or "Save Our Ship." Those are backronyms invented later. It was chosen purely because its Morse pattern is simple, distinctive, and almost impossible to mistake for anything else.
Why SOS was chosen
...---... is a run of three short, three long, three short signals sent as one continuous group with no gaps between the letters. That unbroken rhythm stands out clearly even through noise or a weak signal, and it's symmetric, so it reads the same whether you catch the start or not. When you need a call for help to cut through, simplicity wins — which is exactly why SOS became the global standard in the early days of radio.
How to send SOS
You can send SOS by any on/off signal:
- Sound: three short beeps, three long beeps, three short beeps.
- Light: three short flashes, three long, three short — use the light tool or a flashlight.
- Tapping or knocking: the same short-long-short pattern.
Send it as one continuous group, pause, then repeat. Because it's so recognizable, even people who don't know Morse code often recognize an SOS.
Frequently asked questions
What is SOS in Morse code?
... --- ... — three dots, three dashes, three dots, sent as one continuous signal.
Does SOS stand for anything? No. "Save Our Souls" and "Save Our Ship" are later inventions. SOS was chosen for its simple, unmistakable Morse pattern.
How do I signal SOS with a flashlight? Flash three short, three long, three short, pause, and repeat. Try it with the flashing-light tool.
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