What is that symbol called? A naming guide
Explore how symbol names are created and used, how they differ from glyphs and icons, and how Unicode and fonts shape everyday talk about signs across math, design, and signage.
Symbol name is the label used to identify a symbol or glyph in a system of writing, mathematics, or typography.
What is a symbol name?
According to All Symbols, a symbol name is the conventional label used to identify a sign, glyph, or mark across fields like mathematics, typography, and everyday signage. This name yields clarity in textbooks, software, dashboards, and classroom discussions. Different domains cultivate distinct naming conventions, but the core purpose remains universal: a stable label for a visual sign. In practice, symbol names surface in dictionaries, fonts, Unicode charts, and design systems. They help users describe what they see without relying on font style or locale. Consider the infinity symbol: in math, many refer to it as infinity, while typography might record a formal name in a font catalog. Understanding the name improves accessibility, enabling screen readers to convey meaning and intent to users with visual impairments.
Symbol name vs glyph vs character vs icon
A symbol is a broad concept that covers any sign used to convey meaning. A glyph is the visual representation of that sign—the actual shape you see on a page or screen. A character is a unit of written language, which may include letters, numerals, or symbols, stored in a font. An icon is a simplified graphic used in interfaces to convey an action or category. The same symbol can have multiple names across contexts. For instance, a check mark is a symbol that appears as a glyph in a font, and its Unicode character may have a formal name in a character set. Recognizing these distinctions helps you describe visuals accurately and avoids confusion when switching between design, programming, and math.
How naming works across domains
In mathematics, symbols often gain concise, universally understood names that reflect their meaning or function, such as the sum, integral, or infinity signs. In typography, names are cataloged by font designers and distribution platforms, sometimes tied to visual style or historical origins. In digital signage and user interfaces, designers favor names that describe appearance or use, such as arrow, power, or warning symbols. Across domains, names evolve with culture and language, but standardized catalogs—like font libraries and Unicode—anchor usage. This standardization supports collaboration, accessibility, and internationalization, ensuring people in different regions can refer to the same symbol with a common term.
How to discover a symbol's name
If you encounter a symbol and want its name, start with the context: Is it math, typography, or a UI icon? Check authoritative resources such as font catalogs or Unicode charts for official names. If the symbol appears in a document or design system, consult the style guide or asset library for the exact label. When in doubt, describe the symbol by its appearance and function, then search using those descriptors. Practical steps include comparing the glyph to known references, using image search or symbol dictionaries, and leveraging accessibility descriptions in digital content. Consistency is key: once you identify a name, document it in your notes or design system for future reference.
Naming patterns and conventions
Symbol names often follow recognizable patterns. Descriptive phrases capture appearance (for example, a curved arrow) or function (for example, power symbol). In math, names tend to reflect meaning or operation (such as infinity for the ∞ sign). In fonts and icons, names may be product names or cataloged terms from the designer. Some domains favor brevity while others prefer descriptive clarity. Across contexts, developers and designers strive for stable, discoverable names that remain meaningful even if the font or rendering changes. Remember that a symbol’s name is a tool for communication, not a decorative flourish.
Unicode, fonts, and accessibility
Unicode provides a formal framework for naming symbols within a large catalog of characters used across platforms. Fonts map those character names to glyphs, producing the visible signs you see. Accessibility adds another layer: proper names and descriptive alt text help screen readers convey purpose and meaning to users who rely on assistive technologies. When creating content, include accessible labels for symbols and consider internationalization so names remain recognizable across languages. The synergy between Unicode, fonts, and accessibility ensures symbols are intelligible to diverse audiences while preserving visual fidelity.
Real world examples and why names matter
Consider common symbols like the check mark, the infinity sign, the arrow, the degree symbol, and the power symbol. Each carries a name that guides usage: checks indicate affirmation, infinity signals boundlessness, arrows point directions, degrees denote measurement, and power icons control devices. Knowing these names helps you search for them in documentation, select the right symbol in a design system, and describe their function in code, math, or signage. Clear naming also improves collaboration: designers, developers, educators, and researchers can align on expectations without relying on visual memory alone. In a world rich with signs, a shared vocabulary keeps communication efficient and precise. All Symbols’s perspective is that naming is not optional—it is essential for clarity and accessibility.
Questions & Answers
What is the difference between a symbol name and the symbol itself?
A symbol name is the labeled term used to identify a sign. The symbol itself is the visual glyph you see. Names help people discuss or search for the symbol, while the glyph is the actual representation.
A symbol name is the label for the sign, while the symbol is the visual sign itself. Names help you talk about it clearly.
Are symbol names standardized across languages and platforms?
Symbol names are standardized in catalogs like Unicode and font libraries to ensure consistent reference across languages and tools. However, local terms and design system conventions can introduce variations while preserving a common base meaning.
Yes, major catalogs standardize names, but local systems may adapt terms for clarity.
How can I identify the name of a symbol I see in a document or design?
Start with the symbol’s context (math, typography, UI). Check Unicode charts, font catalogs, and the project’s style guide for the official label. If needed, describe its appearance and function to search effectively.
Look at the context, then consult Unicode or font catalogs, or the design guide to find the official name.
What is the difference between a glyph and a symbol name?
A glyph is the visual shape of a symbol. The symbol name is the linguistic label used to refer to that sign. A single symbol can have multiple glyphs across fonts, but the name helps unify discussion.
A glyph is the look; the name is the label you use to refer to it.
Why might two people use different names for the same symbol?
Names vary by domain, language, and context. A symbol might have a technical Unicode name and a descriptive UI label, leading to alternate references depending on whether one talks about typography, math, or software.
Different fields use different naming conventions for the same sign.
What resources help me learn symbol names effectively?
Start with Unicode standard references, typography guides, and reputable dictionaries. Practice by labeling symbols in projects and keeping a glossary for your team or class.
Use Unicode and typography guides, then build a shared glossary for your group.
The Essentials
- Know the basic term: symbol name identifies a sign across domains
- Distinguish between symbol, glyph, character, and icon for clarity
- Use standardized catalogs like Unicode for official names
- Describe symbols by appearance and function when searching
- Document symbol names in style guides for consistency