Copy † or ‡
Choose a character below to copy its exact text value. Open its details for the Unicode code point and numeric HTML reference.
No matching symbols
Try “dagger”, “wrong”, or a code like U+271D.
Which mark belongs in a note?
A dagger can point from a short passage or table entry to a matching note. A double dagger offers a distinct second mark when the same passage needs another note. This is a convention, not a fixed sequence for every publication: follow the style used by the document you are writing.
Example only. “The first edition used a different title† and a shorter subtitle‡.”
† Note about the title.
‡ Note about the subtitle.
Keep the mark beside the relevant text and repeat it beside its explanation so readers can match the two. If you are writing a long document, use your editor’s footnote feature to create linked references. Pasting † or ‡ by itself adds a character, not a working footnote.
Codes and related shapes
| Character | Unicode name | Code point | Numeric HTML |
|---|---|---|---|
| † | Dagger | U+2020 | † |
| ‡ | Double Dagger | U+2021 | ‡ |
Unicode also lists “obelisk” and “long cross” as aliases for †. That does not make it the same character as the Christian Latin cross ✝ (U+271D). The turned dagger ⸸ (U+2E38) is different again; see our upside-down cross guide for its shape and name.
What about memorial dates?
In some biographical or memorial settings, † beside a date can indicate death. It can also be read as a note marker in a different context. If the meaning needs to be unmistakable, write “died” or label the dates rather than relying on the symbol alone. The double dagger is a separate punctuation character, not a stronger way to express a death date.
Date example: in a record whose legend defines † as “died,” † 2020 means “died in 2020.” Without that context, the mark could instead refer to a note.
How do I enter a dagger?
Copy it above when you need plain text. In Microsoft Word for Windows, you can also convert its hexadecimal Unicode code with Word’s Alt+X feature: 2020 for † or 2021 for ‡. This is a Word command, not a universal Windows shortcut. For Mac, phones, and display problems, use our typing guide.
Dagger symbol FAQ
Is † a cross or an emoji?
Its Unicode name is Dagger. It resembles a cross, but it is an ordinary punctuation character, distinct from ✝. The appearance after pasting depends on the destination font.
Does ‡ always come after †?
No. They can form successive note marks, but the sequence and formatting depend on your publication’s style. Use a matching mark at the note so readers know which text it explains.
Will copying a dagger create a footnote?
No. It copies only the character. Use your document editor’s footnote command when you need an actual note linked to the text.