The Ultimate Guide to the Degree Symbol (°)
The degree symbol (°) is a typographical symbol used to represent degrees of arc, temperature, or other measurements. It's commonly seen in weather reports (25°C), geographic coordinates (40.7128° N), and mathematical expressions (90° angle). This versatile symbol is essential for students, professionals, and everyday communication.
Key Facts About the Degree Symbol
- Origin: Derived from the superscript zero used in temperature scales
- Meaning: Represents degrees in temperature, angles, or geographic coordinates
- First Used: In scientific contexts since the 18th century
- Unicode: U+00B0 DEGREE SIGN
What is the Degree Symbol (°)?
The degree symbol (°) is a small circle placed as a superscript after a number to indicate measurement in degrees. It's most commonly used for:
- Temperature: 25°C (Celsius) or 77°F (Fahrenheit)
- Angles: A 90° right angle or 180° straight line
- Geographic coordinates: Latitude 40.7128° N, Longitude 74.0060° W
- Alcohol proof: 40° proof in some measurement systems
How to Type the Degree Symbol (°) on Different Devices
Windows
- Alt Code: Alt + 0176 (numeric keypad)
- Character Map: Search "Character Map" and find °
- Word: Type 00B0 then press Alt + X
Mac
- Shortcut: Option + Shift + 8
- Character Viewer: Press Control + Command + Space
- Search for "degree" in the viewer
Mobile
- iPhone/iPad: Long-press the zero (0) key
- Android: Long-press the zero (0) key or in symbols keyboard
- Use the special characters menu
Degree Symbol on Specific Platforms
Chromebook
Press Ctrl + Shift + U, then type 00B0 and press Enter.
Microsoft Word
Type 00B0 then press Alt + X, or use Insert → Symbol → More Symbols.
Excel
Use Alt + 0176 (numeric keypad) or format cells with the degree symbol.
HTML
Use the HTML entity ° or the numeric code °.
Quick Reference Guide: Degree Symbol (°) Shortcuts and Codes
| Platform/Device | Shortcut/Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Alt + 0176 | Numeric keypad required |
| Mac | Option + Shift + 8 | Works on all Mac keyboards |
| iPhone/iPad | Long-press 0 key | Select ° from the pop-up menu |
| Android | Long-press 0 key or symbols | Available on most Android keyboards |
| Chromebook | Ctrl+Shift+U, then 00B0 | Unicode input method |
| HTML | ° or ° | HTML entity for web use |
| LaTeX | \textdegree or ^{\circ} | For mathematical documents |
Common Uses of the Degree Symbol
Temperature
Used to denote temperature in Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F) scales. Essential for weather reports, cooking, and scientific measurements.
Angles
Represents angles in geometry, with 90° being a right angle, 180° a straight line, and 360° a full circle.
Geography
Used in geographic coordinates to specify latitude and longitude for precise location mapping.
Alcohol Proof
In some countries, used to indicate alcohol proof, though this usage is becoming less common.