SOS is an internationally recognized Morse code distress signal consisting of three dots, three dashes, and three dots (... --- ...). It was established in 1906 as a simple and unmistakable signal to request help, especially in maritime emergencies
. Contrary to popular belief, SOS does not stand for any specific phrase. It is not an acronym but a procedural signal chosen because it is easy to transmit and recognize in Morse code. The common mnemonic phrases "Save Our Souls" and "Save Our Ship" were created later to help remember the sequence but are not the original meaning
. Today, SOS is used broadly to indicate distress or urgent need for assistance beyond maritime use, including in wireless devices to signal emergency calls when cellular service is unavailable
. It is also used informally in text and speech to express urgency or a desperate situation
. In summary:
- SOS is a Morse code distress signal (... --- ...)
- It does not stand for any words originally
- "Save Our Souls" and "Save Our Ship" are popular backronyms
- Used internationally to signal emergency help needed
This signal remains a universal call for immediate assistance
