What Is Morse Code?

Morse code is a method of encoding text characters as sequences of two different signal durations, called dots (·) and dashes (−). Developed in the early 1830s and 1840s by Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail, it was originally designed for use with the electric telegraph — one of the first long-distance communication systems in history.

Each letter, digit, and punctuation mark is represented by a unique pattern of dots and dashes. For example, the letter A is ·−, while SOS — the universal distress signal — is ··· −−− ···.

Morse code became the dominant communication standard for maritime and military use throughout the 19th and most of the 20th century. Although largely replaced by digital communication, it is still used today in amateur (ham) radio, aviation, and as an accessibility tool for people with disabilities.

How to Use This Morse Code Translator

1

Text to Morse: Type any text in the left box. The Morse code equivalent appears instantly in the right box. Letters are separated by spaces, and words by slashes (/).

2

Morse to Text: Type dots (.) and dashes (-) in the right box. Separate letters with spaces and words with slashes (/). The decoded text appears on the left.

3

Audio Playback: Click "Play Audio" to hear your Morse code as beeps. Adjust the speed slider from slow (learning mode) to fast (experienced operators).

4

Copy Output: Click the copy button above either box to instantly copy the content to your clipboard.

Morse Code Rules & Conventions

Dots and Dashes

A dot (·) represents a short signal. A dash (−) is exactly three times as long as a dot. The gap between parts of the same letter is one dot length. The gap between letters is three dot lengths. The gap between words is seven dot lengths.

Word Separator

In written Morse code, words are separated by a forward slash (/) surrounded by spaces. When you see ... --- .../, the slash indicates the beginning of a new word.

Case Insensitivity

Morse code does not distinguish between uppercase and lowercase letters. Both A and a are encoded as ·−. When decoding, output is typically displayed in uppercase.

Numbers & Punctuation

Digits 0–9 and common punctuation marks have their own Morse codes. Numbers always use five symbols — for example, 5 is ····· and 0 is −−−−−.

Common Uses of Morse Code Today

Amateur Radio

Ham radio operators still use Morse code (CW) for long-distance communication, especially in poor signal conditions where voice is unintelligible.

Aviation

VOR and NDB navigation beacons identify themselves by transmitting their three-letter identifier in Morse code, audible in the cockpit.

Accessibility

People with motor disabilities use Morse code as an alternative input method — a single switch can produce any character by tapping dots and dashes.

Morse Code Translator

Morse Code Reference Chart