multiply

Unicode: 2716

Description

A heavy multiplication X symbol, typically displayed in black. It is also known as a 'heavy ballot X' or 'heavy ballot multiply'.

Group:

Symbols > math

Status:

unqualified

Emotion:

Generally does not convey emotion but rather a functional meaning of multiplication, incorrectness, or denial.

Backstory

This symbol is part of the Unicode set of mathematical and ballot symbols. It has been used for centuries in various contexts, from marking errors on documents to mathematical notation, and was standardized digitally as part of early computing character sets.

Usage Examples

  • Mathematical equations: '2 ✖ 5 = 10'
  • Indicating an incorrect answer: 'Your answer is ✖'
  • As a heavy 'X' mark: 'Do not enter ✖'

Cultural Differences

Western culture:

Often used in mathematics for multiplication, or as an 'X' to mark something incorrect, denied, or to indicate a stop.

East Asian culture:

Similar to Western usage, it can denote incorrectness, cancellation, or multiplication.