INTERNATIONAL MORSE CODE / WORD

SOS in Morse Code

SOS=... --- ...

SOS is the internationally recognized Morse distress signal: three dots, three dashes, and three dots sent as one continuous sequence.

Morse representation

SOS is written as ... --- .... It contains 6 dots and 3 dashes.

Character breakdown

S...
O---
S...

How to type SOS

Type ... --- .... A dot lasts one time unit, a dash lasts three, a letter gap lasts three units, and a word gap lasts seven.

Pattern and sound

Use Listen to hear the complete rhythm at 620 Hz. Learn it as one sound pattern instead of counting every mark; this improves recognition at higher speeds.

Examples in context

  • Use SOS only to indicate grave and imminent danger.
  • Send the nine marks as one continuous signal.
  • Repeat the signal when seeking emergency attention.

Practice this signal

Listen once, repeat the rhythm, then enter it from memory. Short daily sessions build more reliable recognition than visual memorization alone.

Why SOS was chosen

Its symmetrical rhythm—three short, three long, three short—is distinctive and practical to transmit. SOS is a signal in its own right; it was not selected as an abbreviation for “Save Our Ship” or “Save Our Souls.”

Historical authority

The distress signal was established internationally in the early twentieth century and became associated with maritime radio communication. Historical claims are reviewed against the institutional and technical references on our sources page.

How SOS is sent

Transmit ...---... as one procedural signal. Continue in the translator or build recognition in the practice tool.