Below is the Alt code keyboard shortcut for inserting the degree symbol. If you are new to ALT codes and need detailed instructions on how to use them, please read How to Use ALT Codes to Enter Special Characters. The Alt code for the degree (°) sign or symbol on Windows systems is 248 or 0176. To enter the degree symbol using the Alt code, hold down the Alt key and, while keeping it pressed, type 248 or 0176 using the numeric keypad. Then, release the Alt key, and the degree symbol (°) should appear. On an Apple Mac US keyboard, press the Option key, Shift key and the number 8 key simultaneously. Please note that Alt codes may not work in all applications or with all keyboard configurations, as it depends on the specific settings and character encoding. If these methods do not work, simply copy and paste the degree symbol below.
Click the degree sign symbol to copy:
°
| Symbol | ° |
| Symbol Name | Degree sign |
| Windows Alt Code | ALT 248 or ALT 0176 |
| Windows Alt X Code | 00B0 ALT X |
| Mac Option Key Shortcut | Option + Shift + 8 |
| HTML Entity Named Character Reference | ° |
| HTML Entity Numeric Character Reference (Hexadecimal) | ° |
| HTML Entity Numeric Character Reference (Decimal) | ° |
| Unicode Code Point | U+00B0 |
Origin, Meaning and Usage of the Degree Symbol °
The degree symbol (°) is a typographic symbol used to represent degrees of arc or temperature measurements. It is a small circle placed above the baseline and is often used in various fields, including mathematics, geography, astronomy, physics, and meteorology.
When used to represent degrees of arc, the degree symbol (°) indicates a unit of measurement for angles. It is commonly used to denote angles in geometric figures, navigation, and mapping. For example, a right angle is typically represented as 90°, and a full circle is 360°.
When used to represent temperature, the degree symbol (°) is used to indicate the Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F) scales. It appears immediately after the numerical value to signify the temperature measurement. For example, 25°C represents 25 degrees Celsius, and 77°F represents 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
In addition to the degree symbol (°), it’s important to note that there are other symbols used for specific purposes related to temperature. For instance, the Kelvin scale is represented by the symbol “K” (without the degree sign).
Overall, the degree symbol (°) is a versatile typographic symbol used to indicate angles of arc and temperature measurements, and it plays a crucial role in accurately conveying numerical information in various scientific and everyday contexts.
The copyright symbol © is a part of the set of ALT Codes for Letter-like Symbols. For the the complete list of the ASCII based Windows ALT Codes, refer to Windows ALT Codes for Special Characters & Symbols.
