⊛
Unicode
U+229BLaTeX
\circledastHTML entity
⊛HTML decimal
⊛MathML
<mo>⊛</mo>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ∘ — Function Composition
Use ⊛ in the right format
Meaning and usage
Represents circular convolution or another explicitly defined circled operation.
Use it only after defining the operation and the space on which it acts.
Pronunciation: circled asterisk operator
Formula examples
f⊛gHow to type Circled Asterisk Operator
- Windows
- Use Character Map or enter U+229B in a Unicode-aware application.
- macOS
- Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search by the symbol name.
- Microsoft Word
- In an equation, type \circledast and press Space when Word supports the command.
- iPhone and iPad
- Copy and paste ⊛, or use a math/LaTeX app. The standard iOS keyboard may not expose every mathematical symbol.
- Android
- Copy and paste ⊛, or use a math keyboard or LaTeX editor. Keyboard layouts vary by device and app.
- Google Docs
- For plain text, paste ⊛ or use Insert → Special characters. For structured math, use the equation editor and verify \circledast.
- Excel
- Paste ⊛ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- Preserve grouping, operator order, and spacing around ⊛; Use it only after defining the operation and the space on which it acts.
- For plain text, copy ⊛ as U+229B; for structured equations, use \circledast in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Circled Asterisk Operator.
When to use ⊛
- Use ⊛ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+229B.
- Use \circledast in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Circled Asterisk Operator is used in functions operators with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ∘ — Function Composition
Font and compatibility notes
Font coverage varies; verify the code point and destination rendering before publication.
Continue the workflow
From Circled Asterisk Operator to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse ⊛ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
\circledastfor LaTeX or the MathML snippet for accessible web equations. - Edit or convertOpen the value in the editor or converter without retyping it.
Review and source notes
Quality tier: catalog
Last reviewed: 2026-07-23
Review method: Catalog review of character identity and notation mappings.
Verified against: Unicode Standard, Unicode mathematical notation guidance, and established LaTeX/MathML syntax.
Reference sources
- The Unicode StandardUnicode Consortium — Character identity, encoding, names, and conformance.
- Unicode Character Code ChartsUnicode Consortium — Code points and official character charts.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Circled Asterisk Operator symbol mean?
Represents circular convolution or another explicitly defined circled operation.
What is the LaTeX command for ⊛?
Use \circledast in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy ⊛ as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.